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Dig Deep
Dig Deep
Author: Rob Tyson
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© 2025 Rob Tyson
Description
In this podcast, we discuss, educate and talk about industry news and hot topics, company reviews and live interviews with mining professionals and leading figures in the mining industry. Introducing your host Rob Tyson, Founder and Director of Mining International, a leading recruitment and headhunting agency based in the UK specialising in mining across the globe. We source and discover new talent to fill those difficult or challenging vacancies our clients have.
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In this episode, we chat with Jorgen Evjen, CEO of Akobo Minerals, a Scandinavian-based gold producer and exploration company with operations in Ethiopia. They have quietly taken one of the most unconventional paths in modern gold mining, from years of uncertainty and capital pressure to the high-grade Segele discovery. This story is as much about judgment, discipline and trust as it is about geology.
We talk about the moment the project became real, what “responsible mining” actually means when decisions have consequences on the ground, and why Ethiopia’s perceived risk often differs from reality. We’ll also explore execution where plans met friction and how leadership assumptions had to change when operating far from a typical Nordic environment.
Finally, we look forward: investor pressure, maintaining integrity under acceleration and what Akobo’s next phase truly depends on over the coming 12-24 months.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Akobo Minerals has taken an unconventional path in gold mining, transitioning from years of uncertainty and capital pressure to achieving significant discoveries, particularly the high-grade Segele discovery in Ethiopia.
Building strong relationships with local authorities and understanding the cultural context are crucial for navigating the regulatory landscape.
The company's approach to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has shifted from a theoretical framework to practical, on-the-ground actions.
Akobo Minerals faced significant operational challenges, including delays due to external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and local conflicts.
BEST MOMENTS
"In 2015, we did an RC drilling campaign. It didn't come up with much. At that point, we were a bit like, okay, this is hard, this is difficult. But we kept on going."
"Trust is undervalued or underestimated. It's number one in my book. I cannot compromise, even though I'm being told to compromise."
"You have to work within the local framework. In Norway, we have an extremely flat management structure. In Ethiopia, you have an extremely silo-based management system."
"We’re cash flow positive, we can finally lift site from the mine and back on to exploration. The mine will produce, we’re doing a new vertical shaft that will close to 10 double the output by the end of the year."
GUEST RESOURCES
Website: https://www.akobominerals.com
Email: jorgen@akobominerals.com
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/akobominerals/
LinkedIn (Personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgen-evjen
X - https://x.com/akobominerals
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Dominic Duggan, CEO of Patriot Resources, a junior miner exploring for precious metals, copper and lithium across South America (Tassa), Zambia, Africa (Kitumba project) and in Canada.
Dom has moved from the technical and operational side of mining into the CEO role, so we talk about how that changes the way you think from evaluating rocks to allocating capital and prioritising projects across multiple jurisdictions. We also get into what actually needs to be proven early to turn a project into a real development opportunity, the technical signals that justify expanding a drilling program, and why time on site often tells you more than a presentation ever can.
We also discuss permitting, community engagement, capital discipline, and the kind of leader he’s consciously trying to be and much more.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Engaging meaningfully with communities can facilitate permitting processes and create mutual benefits, rather than viewing community engagement as a hurdle.
Patriot Resources is prioritising its Tassa project in Peru, which has shown promising results with a maiden resource of 31 million ounces of silver equivalent
Before committing to larger drill programs, the company looks for specific technical signals, such as consistent mineralization and the presence of sulfides
Dom aims to be an authentic and approachable leader, focusing on understanding the operations and engaging with the investor community
BEST MOMENTS
"We're fortunate that there's been a relationship there for a number of years with the local community, but it's certainly something that we're looking to build on and get right from the outset."
"The silver price has been really well supported. We certainly share a long-term view around a new price equilibrium or floor, away from the historical lows."
"There are some technical signals that the team are seeing there, like the presence of sulfides in multiple locations, sort of consistent mineralization."
"I certainly want to live the experience and spend as much time with the teams and in the assets as possible."
GUEST RESOURCES
Website:https://www.patriotresources.com.au
Email (general enquiries):info@patriotresources.com.au
Email (CEO)dduggan@patriotresources.com.au
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/patriot-resources-limited/
X (Twitter):https://x.com/Patriot_ASX
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Rob Crayfourd and Keith Watson, Co-Fund Managers for CQS Natural Resources Growth and Income, the Geiger Counter Funds and Golden Prospect Precious Metals, where all funds provide shareholders with exposure to a broad portfolio of mining and resource-focused equities, aiming to deliver both steady dividend income and capital growth.
We are discussing their Geiger Counter fund, which focuses on the uranium market and the investment case behind it. We discuss the fund and mandate, where they’re currently seeing opportunities across the sector, and what’s been driving the recent momentum in the uranium price.
We also explore whether that momentum is sustainable, the fundamentals supporting uranium long-term, and how a potential supply deficit could shape global nuclear ambitions. Finally, we look at policy and regulatory shifts, and the thinking behind some of their key portfolio holdings.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The uranium market is currently experiencing a supply deficit, driven by low inventory levels and increasing demand from nuclear reactors
The funds focus on undervalued uranium assets, particularly in North America, with a significant emphasis on companies like NextGen and Denison
There is a strong belief that the momentum in the uranium market will continue, driven by structural demand growth and the need for new uranium mines to come online
Recent policy shifts in the U.S. and other Western countries are increasingly supportive of nuclear energy, which is seen as a critical component of energy security
BEST MOMENTS
"Nuclear power is now very strategic in that there is a clear shortage of base-load capacity in most regions around the world."
"We want to be in those names that have full participation into a rising price environment... if the uranium price goes to 150, 200, 250, then they get full participation in that."
"In western markets, the established nuclear markets, nuclear represents something like 20% of electricity capacity... that makes it all the more strategic."
"We're seeing reactor lives being extended. There's a real shift to a much more positive political support backdrop for nuclear."
GUEST RESOURCES
Geiger Counter:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/geiger-counter/
https://ncim.co.uk/geiger-counter-ltd/
CQS Natural Resources Growth and Income Plc
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cqs-natural-resources-growth-and-income-plc/
https://ncim.co.uk/cqs-natural-resources-growth-and-income-plc/
Golden Prospect:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/golden-prospect-precious-metals-investment-fund/
https://ncim.co.uk/golden-prospect-precious-metals-ltd/
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Mark Sumner, CEO and Chairman of Daura Gold, a TSX-listed junior miner, advancing high-impact exploration projects in Peru’s renowned Ancash region.
We discuss what attracted the team to the country, how a re-evaluation of historic drilling at Antonella significantly upgraded the dataset without drilling a single new hole, and what that means for confidence in the scale of the system.
We also talk about district context, upcoming drilling plans at Antonella, the discovery potential behind the first systematic drill program at Cerro Bayo, and what Peru is like as a mining jurisdiction.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Daura Gold achieved a 51% increase in gold equivalent gram meters at their Antonella project without drilling a single new hole
Despite political shifts, Peru remains a premier mining destination because of its world-class mineral endowment (Top 3 in copper and silver) and its proactive stance on promoting foreign investment
The Antonella project is located in the prolific Ancash Department, immediately adjacent to Highlander Silver’s Bonita project and near the legendary San Luis deposit
While focusing on Peru, Daura is also actively exploring the Cerro Bayo project in Argentina. This represents the first systematic drill testing of 15 priority targets in the Deseado Massif
BEST MOMENTS
"Peru has that really exciting combination of incredibly prospective geology... yet so much of the country is still under-explored."
"We managed to materially enhance the data set without drilling a single hole... it’s completely changed the profile of the project for us."
"The mineral endowment of the Ancash is incredible... we’re surrounded by these incredibly rich, high-grade epithermal vein systems."
"We think there’s potential for a multi-million ounce deposit at Antonella... that’s really what the next 12 to 18 months looks like for us."
GUEST RESOURCES
Website: https://www.dauragold.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/daura-gold-corp/
X: https://x.com/DauraGold
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In today's episode, we chat to Shaun Bunn, Managing Director at Empire Metals, an AIM and OTC-traded exploration & resource development company who are developing Pitfield, an emerging giant titanium project in Western Australia.
We talk about titanium, a critical mineral the West desperately needs more of and dive into the scale and purity of the Pitfield discovery in Western Australia and the upcoming drill programme. Why its location and government backing matter, and what makes this deposit fundamentally different from most titanium projects worldwide. Most importantly, we discuss how that difference could give Empire a serious strategic advantage as secure supply becomes a global priority.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Pitfield project is described as one of the world's largest titanium systems, with a 2.2 billion-tonne mineral resource that covers less than one-fifth of the identified anomaly.
Titanium is a critical mineral for the West, particularly for NATO defence and aerospace; currently, supply is heavily concentrated in China (60%) and Russia.
Unlike 90% of the world's supply which comes from ilmenite, Pitfield consists of anatase and rutile in sandstone, which lacks common impurities like chrome or uranium.
Because the minerals are already oxidised, they can be processed at lower temperatures (just over 100°C) without the intensive acid and energy requirements of traditional smelting.
BEST MOMENTS
"We’ve found what is clearly the world’s largest titanium system on the planet... it probably represents at least a third of the world’s total resource in one spot."
"Titanium is as strong as steel and half the weight... but the concentration of supply sits in, firstly China—something like 60% of all the metal—and Russia."
"Metals is one of the key cornerstones of the mining industry... you need innovation, you need courage amongst all things to tackle some of these projects."
"It's like replicating the chemistry that’s already happened over time, only trying to do it in 24 hours and not 600 million years."
GUEST RESOURCES
Website: https://www.empiremetals.com/
Contact: https://www.empiremetals.com/contact/
X: https://x.com/Empiremetalsltd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/empiremetals/
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Beth Borody, who is the founder of Maven, a platform putting real capital and real decision-making power into new hands, particularly women, in a sector where access to opportunity has traditionally been tightly controlled.
Last time Beth was on the show, we talked about why women should be investing in mining. This time, we’re talking about what happens when you stop asking for a seat at the table and start building a new table altogether.
We’ll get into resistance, capital flows, ESG reality versus rhetoric, and whether changing who controls money might change mining itself.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
After identifying that women were often excluded from mining investment due to systemic barriers and a lack of specific research, Beth transitioned from educational advocacy with Femina Collective to founding Maven, a female-led mining company.
Maven distinguishes itself by building in the open, intentionally making the mining process and investment opportunities accessible to those outside the traditional industry inner circle.
Maven prioritises a proactive ESG approach, emphasising community partnership and environmental due diligence from day one
he venture aims to tap into the $1 trillion wealth transfer currently moving into the hands of women, directing that capital toward the mining sector
BEST MOMENTS
"Why aren't we actually building a mining company that's based on the values and ethos of what we've built with Femina?”
"We want to turn that on its head and say, 'No, we don't think so. We think that everyone should have access to mining. Mining's happening in everyone's backyard, especially here in Canada and the US.'"
"The fact of the matter is we need mining so badly right now, and we need so much more mining right now that that pie is only going to get bigger."
"We don't want to have to retrofit later down the road social issues or environmental issues that come up because we just ignored them at the front."
GUEST RESOURCES
Website - www.mavenexploration.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/maven-exploration/
Instagram - radically_maven
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Tim Foden, a partner at Boies Schiller Flexner, one of the most well-known and formidable litigation firms in the world. Tim has built a reputation for tackling complex, bet-the-company disputes and navigating some of the most challenging legal battles across industries.
We’ll explore Tim’s path to Boies Schiller, what it takes to succeed in an elite litigation environment, and how lawyers think about strategy when the pressure is on and the consequences are real. We’ll also talk about the evolving role of trial lawyers, lessons learned from major cases, and what young attorneys and even business leaders can take away from the way top litigators approach decision-making and risk.
Whether you’re a lawyer, a founder, or simply curious about how major legal battles are fought and won, this episode offers a rare inside look.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Mining companies are increasingly recognising the importance of involving legal counsel early in the process, especially when facing potential disputes or changes in mining codes
The mining industry is heavily influenced by geopolitics, with major international powers becoming more involved in the politics surrounding mining projects
Companies often make critical errors, such as failing to document agreements properly or engaging in corrupt practices like bribery, which can jeopardise their legal claims in the future
When investing in mining, especially in regions like Africa and South America, it's crucial to establish a holding structure that provides treaty protection
BEST MOMENTS
"If you take, for example, Mali, this is a perfect example. Mali enacts a new mining code in 2023, and everyone has these existing mineral development agreements that suggest they should be immune from any changes."
"Junior mining companies are run by frontiersmen... The problem is sometimes they start to get into problems with the sovereign and all of a sudden, having done everything on their own, they think they know best in that arena too."
"If you pay a bribe to get a license... you might really have deprived yourself of the opportunity to bring a claim down the road."
"Sovereigns are increasingly putting diplomatic pressure on states to avoid the kinds of outcomes... to get more involved, to restore licenses."
GUEST RESOURCES
Tim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-l-foden-6a12496/
YouTube video of the cross-examination from day three of the Winshear Gold vs Tanzania hearing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9bX0yvyCas&list=PLTPAfLBOjfQJS8VymC4os9jvefqE7rMHO&index=5
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Jeremy Gillis, Director of Capital Markets at Sendero Resources, a junior exploration company focused on unlocking the vast mineral potential in Argentina.
We dig into how truly differentiated opportunities are identified at the earliest stages, and why strong marketing can never compensate for weak fundamentals. Jeremy shares why capital structure is often the silent killer of otherwise good projects, why people matter more than rocks in early-stage companies, and why disciplined capital allocation is especially critical for non-cash-flowing explorers.
We also explore why Sendero is not just a “closeology” story. From integrated data and system-level thinking to local knowledge, stakeholder alignment, and jurisdictional risk, this is a discussion about mining projects viewed through the lens of operators—not just explorers. We’ll talk about balancing discovery upside with a clear path to development and exit, what Sendero is doing differently with data integration, and how experience on the ground changes outcomes.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Projects with well-utilised data significantly increase the chances of making successful discoveries, while poor data can lead to misguided efforts and wasted resources.
Building relationships with local stakeholders, including governments and communities, can facilitate smoother operations and project advancement.
Poor capital structures can hinder growth and lead to significant challenges, especially in a market where every dollar raised must be carefully managed.
In the early stages of mining exploration, the expertise and experience of the team are often more critical than the geological potential of the site
BEST MOMENTS
"In a very crowded market of 1,700 companies, not just being dependent upon metal prices has sort of set us apart."
"If you know what to do with data... you are building a pathway to finding something."
"The rocks are exceptional. Now, the government... has certainly made strides. There is a mining pedigree there."
"If you have an idea... you could waste a lot of money."
GUEST RESOURCES
Socials- Sendero Resources (@SenderoRes) on X, (Sendero Resources) on LinkedIn, and (@sendero_resources) on Instagram.
Website- https://senderoresources.com/
Email- info@senderoresources.com
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode we chat to Craig Bradshaw, Managing Director of EQ Resources, a company that has become one of the most talked-about names in the tungsten space.
After nearly two decades working overseas, he’s now back in Australia and back in the mining industry at a time when critical minerals and geopolitics are firmly in the spotlight.
EQ Resources operates across Spain and Australia, is already producing, and has seen its market capitalisation grow from under $100 million to over $600 million in a relatively short period. Meanwhile, tungsten prices have surged dramatically, and governments globally are paying closer attention to secure supply chains. We talk about Craig’s return to Australia, EQ’s journey and challenges, their assets, what’s driving the tungsten market, and what the future looks like for EQ Resources.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The tungsten market is currently experiencing a surge in prices, driven by a supply-demand imbalance. China dominates the market, supplying 83-85% of the world's tungsten, while geopolitical tensions and increased defence spending are further straining supply.
EQ Resources operates two key assets: Barruecopardo in Spain and Carbine in Australia. Both assets have significant historical production and potential for resource expansion, with ongoing improvements in recovery rates due to advanced sorting technology.
EQ Resources utilises proprietary sorting technology that allows for a 90% rejection rate of waste while achieving a 99% recovery of ore. This technology enhances the efficiency and profitability of their operations.
The company aims to increase production significantly, targeting an annual output of 3,000 to 4,000 tonnes of contained tungsten by mid-2026.
BEST MOMENTS
"The market is short of tungsten. We're on a trajectory that's going to take us to be the number one producer in the rest of the world by the end of 2026."
"If it wasn't for the sorters, the sorters are the differentiator that makes our operations viable."
We've got a number of customers who are looking for increased production. We've got the ability to double the production at our carbine asset."
GUEST RESOURCES
Company: EQ Resources Limited (ASX: EQR)Website: https://www.eqresources.com.au/ASX announcements: https://www.eqresources.com.au/site/investors/asx-announcementsEmail alerts sign-up: https://www.eqresources.com.au/site/contact/email-alertsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eq-resources-ltd/X: https://x.com/EQResourcesASX
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Aymone Schendel, a connector, community builder, and one of the most influential voices shaping the future of mining networks in the UK and beyond.
She is an inspiration behind The Oxford Mining Club, a global network designed to connect students, professionals, and leaders around thoughtful discussion, innovation, and responsible development in the sector. She also plays a key role in Women in Mining UK, an organisation dedicated to advancing gender diversity, visibility, and leadership across the industry. She is also behind MinSouth, a fast-growing initiative focused on connecting mining professionals and investors with opportunities across the Global South.
What sets her apart is her ability to bring people together across disciplines, generations, and geographies to create spaces where ideas, opportunities, and leadership can thrive. She has focused her career on building platforms that strengthen collaboration and inclusivity in mining, and we’ll explore what inspired her to build these communities and the impacts they’ve had. What achievements she’s most proud of, and the lessons she’s learned along the way, including the advice she would give her younger self starting out in this career.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Individuals from non-technical backgrounds can successfully enter the mining industry, as demonstrated by Aymone’s journey from medical instrumentation to mining through various roles.
Building impactful networks is crucial in the mining industry. Quality connections and active listening are emphasised as key components of effective networking.
Organisations like the Oxford Mining Club and Women in Mining UK focus on creating inclusive spaces for professionals to connect, share ideas, and foster collaboration
New entrants to the mining field are encouraged to seize opportunities, engage with industry professionals, and not shy away from networking events, as these can lead to valuable relationships and career advancements.
BEST MOMENTS
"I'm proof that anyone can work in the industry, even if you do not have a technical background. Don't let anyone tell you you can't work in mining."
"Networking with impact requires focusing on quality connections, not quantity. Create spaces of value. It's your time. It's their time. It's precious."
"If the opportunity is presented to you to work in the mining industry, don't dismiss it. Get all the facts, get out there, network, talk to people."
"We strive to make the industry as rewarding and fulfilling a place to start and grow a career, especially now, creating safe spaces for women to come together."
GUEST RESOURCES
The Oxford Mining Club: Website: http://www.oxfordminingclub.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oxford-mining-club-limited/?viewAsMember=true
Women in Mining UK: Website: https://www.womeninmining.org.uk/LinkedIn: Women In Mining UK (WIM UK)
MinSouthWebsite: https://minsouth.org.uk/LinkedIn: MinSouth
Aymone Schendel:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aymone-schendel-48202a3/
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with John Shively, CEO of Pebble Partnership, to discuss what is widely regarded as one of the most scrutinised and controversial mining projects in the world.
John has spent decades working in Alaska, from his early career through senior public service roles, to leadership positions on some of the state’s most significant mining operations. Today, he leads a project that sits at the intersection of technical feasibility, environmental sensitivity, community engagement, and shifting political realities.
We talk candidly about what the mining industry still misunderstands about Pebble from a technical and operational standpoint, how engagement with Alaska Native corporations and communities has evolved over time, and what it’s really like to lead a project where engineering solutions and political outcomes don’t always align.
Finally, John shares personal reflections on leadership under pressure, resilience in the face of prolonged uncertainty, and what he would say to the next generation of mining professionals considering a career on projects that are technically sound but politically complex.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The design of the tailings impoundment facility at Pebble is unique, focusing on draining liquid through the tailings to minimise risks associated with moisture and potential failures
Building credibility with local communities and stakeholders is essential. Effective engagement strategies, such as the Elders Conference, have been implemented to foster dialogue and address concerns
The Pebble project has the potential to significantly contribute to the U.S. copper supply, addressing the growing demand for critical minerals necessary for energy transition and technological advancements
Leading a controversial project requires patience, resilience, and the ability to navigate shifting political landscapes.
BEST MOMENTS
"I don't know whether this project can be done environmentally responsibly or not. So if you want a cheerleader, find somebody else."
"Our Environmental Impact Statement... says we can do the project without harming the fish."
"The biggest risk is price. So, you know, today that price looks pretty good."
"You have to believe in the product and what it can do. And that's what keeps me going."
GUEST RESOURCES
https://pebblepartnership.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/pebble-ltd.-partnership
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we speak with Gilbert Clark, CEO of Meridian Mining, a mineral exploration and development company focused on unlocking high-value copper, gold, silver and other metal resources in Brazil. Meridian’s flagship asset is the advanced Cabaçal Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide project in Mato Grosso.
We discuss Meridian’s recent resource milestones, how the company is positioning itself for execution and growth, the de-risking of the project, skills within the Brazilian mining industry, an update on the Brazilian mining industry and what the outlook could look like as it moves toward becoming a meaningful copper-gold producer in a critical global market.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Gilbert transformed Meridian Mining from a manganese-focused company into a high-value copper and gold explorer by leveraging the historical data of a decommissioned BP/Rio Tinto project.
The Cabaçal project is uniquely positioned as a "brownfield restart," meaning it has established infrastructure and historical production data that significantly mitigate geological, metallurgical, and permitting risks.
Mato Grosso offers a mature mining environment with affordable hydroelectric power, established logistics from the agricultural sector, and a supportive local community and government.
The greatest risk to the industry is "generational change" and a lack of skilled engineers. Meridian addresses this through deep local university partnerships and a culture of independent decision-making
BEST MOMENTS
"We are a fundamental building block of everyone's daily going about their business. It is mining."
"For me, as a reasonably experienced private equity investor in natural resources, my fundamental concern is risk. If I'm going to deploy capital, do I risk it?"
"My greatest concern long-term... is demographics. You’ve got to extract as much knowledge from the 45-to-50-year-old guys and transfer that into the 20-year-old men and women."
"There’s a fundamental rule in mining: You go to work with ten fingers and ten toes, and you go home at night with ten fingers and ten toes."
GUEST RESOURCES
https://meridianmining.co/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/meridian-mining/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzVr6ILYF_Ax2hI6oBoCaOw
https://x.com/meridianmining
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In today's episode, we speak with Gerard Wood, founder of Turbo Leadership Coaching and Wood & Media, and someone well known across the mining and industrial sectors for his practical, no-nonsense approach to leadership, culture, and performance.
Gerard has spent decades working alongside leaders, frontline teams, and tradespeople, helping businesses close the gap between strategy and execution. Many of you will know him as the author of 'Simplifying Mining Maintenance', a book that challenged how our industry thinks about reliability, accountability, and systems.
Our conversation centres on Gerard’s new book, 'Only Tradies Improve Reliability', due to be released in late-February which takes those ideas further, focusing on leadership, culture, and the often-overlooked role of tradies in building high-performing organisations.
We’ll be unpacking why this book needed to be written, what prompted Gerard to write it now, and how leaders can extract real, practical value from it in their own businesses. We’ll also explore why Gerard cares so deeply about tradies, how leaders can recognise when cultural change is required, and how this book builds on the foundations laid in Simplifying Mining Maintenance.
If you’re a leader looking to improve performance, engagement, and culture, particularly in operational environments, this is a conversation you’ll want to stay tuned for.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
While technical reliability tools (like RCM or RCA) are essential, they are ineffective without a positive trades culture. True reliability is built on the floor, not just in an office.
Reliability issues often stem from "normalised" defects. Tradies and leaders may stop noticing problems because they have become part of the daily environment, requiring a shift in standards to correct.
High turnover is a primary indicator of a poor culture. A healthy environment is one where leaders genuinely care for their teams and employees feel valued enough to speak openly about problems.
BEST MOMENTS
"If you can't talk about the problems openly and honestly, you have no ability to improve."
"Reliability of equipment... is all centred around getting the culture around trades to be effective and doing good quality work."
"Culture is not something that you just let happen. Because if you just let it happen, you may not get the one you want."
GUEST RESOURCES
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerard-wood-146a3212/
https://gerardwood.com.au/
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Jeremy Gray, a highly active mining executive and entrepreneur currently serving as CEO of Pilar Gold, Pure Tungsten, Tucano Gold, and Gold Road and most recently the founder of Chancery Royalty, who are building a portfolio of producing gold & silver royalty assets to become a significant player in the industry.
Jeremy is operating across multiple commodities, jurisdictions, and business models at a time when gold, critical minerals, and alternative financing structures are all firmly back in focus. In this conversation, we’ll explore how he thinks about building and running multiple companies simultaneously, why gold and tungsten matter right now, what royalties offer that traditional mining doesn’t, and how he sees the next phase of the mining cycle unfolding.
For more information and to request an investor pack, please visit this link: https://www.chanceryroyalty.com/chancery-royalty-equity-raise?SQF_LEAD_SOURCE=deep
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Jeremy attributes his success in managing six companies simultaneously to finding strong management teams and "letting go" of control
The royalty business is significantly less stressful than mine operation. Jeremy views the gold royalty model as a "deal-making" pinnacle that avoids the 24/7 operational burdens of being a producer.
Unlike many popular minerals, tungsten hasn't seen a new mine built in nearly 40 years. Because China has shifted from a dominant exporter to a net importer, the lack of new supply has created a high-value, strategic opportunity
Chancery Royalty differentiates itself by moving faster than traditional firms. They avoid charging high due diligence fees and aim to close funding deals within weeks rather than months
BEST MOMENTS
"The key... is to delegate and to let go and not to control everything that comes in the company... My job was to find them the money to start the gold mines or to start the tungsten mine in South Korea and just let them run with it."
"Don't be too quick to sell... I think we're in early stages of a very, very big move and don't be scared by these high prices. They're not coming down anytime soon." (On the gold market)
"Being a gold miner is like being a doctor on 24-hour, seven-day-week call, and a royalty guy is lots of long lunches."
GUEST RESOURCES
For more information and to request an investor pack, please click on this link:
https://www.chanceryroyalty.com/chancery-royalty-equity-raise?SQF_LEAD_SOURCE=deep
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Michael Rawlinson, one of the most experienced and well-known figures in mining finance and our industry. Michael’s career spans multiple decades and cycles, from growing up in a mining family to early roles in investment banking and equity research, co-founding Liberum, senior roles at Barclays, and now a portfolio career as a non-executive director across the mining sector.
Few people have seen the industry from as many angles: advisor, analyst, investor, and board member and in this conversation, we’ll reflect on how mining, capital markets, and leadership have evolved, what’s genuinely different about the current cycle, and what still hasn’t changed at all.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Michael’s extensive career was heavily influenced by growing up in a mining family and witnessing the inherent volatility of the industry firsthand across Africa.
The mining industry has undergone a massive shift from a "Wild West" mentality to a highly regulated environment where ESG and safety standards are fundamental to operations.
Modern mining finance has transitioned from a reliance on traditional London equity markets to more sophisticated private equity firms and the robust superannuation system in Australia.
Despite technological advancements and new ESG requirements, the industry remains governed by 20-30 year "metronomic" cycles of supply and demand
BEST MOMENTS
"The world of mining is the oldest, most boring, most basic of industries, and in a sense, it never changes. It is the most volatile sector there ever was... the cycles are brutal, they are relentless."
"We’ve gone from a Wild West to having better safety, environmental, better governance, and regulation. It’s overall a better place, a smaller industry in terms of people and share of GDP, but the tons grow for most commodities."
“The globalisation of Britain has actually just meant that money's gone elsewhere."
"The next 20 years, for the people who’ve learned the skills in these technical industries, they’re going to do well... This is revenge of the high-viz vest land."
GUEST RESOURCES
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-rawlinson-244750101/
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
We're joined by Tom Elliott, the founder of Hotspur Helium, who holds the largest multinational primary helium portfolio globally.
We discuss what Hotspur Helium is building and the ambition behind the company, before stepping back to look at why helium has become such a compelling focus for investors and operators alike. Tom shares insight into the critical uses of helium — from healthcare and advanced manufacturing to space and technology, and the demand trends reshaping the global supply landscape.
We also discuss how Hotspur Helium thinks about where to operate globally, what differentiates the company in an increasingly competitive space, and where it currently sits in its growth journey. Finally, we dive into the commercial realities of helium projects, including off-take interest, project economics, payback potential, and what the outlook looks like over the coming years.
This is a practical, forward-looking conversation about a niche commodity that plays an outsized role in modern industry, and how Hotspur Helium is positioning itself within that opportunity
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Hotspur Helium differentiates itself by targeting "elephant" prospects—large-scale deposits (at least 5 BCF of recoverable helium) in the Middle East and Southern Africa, rather than the smaller pockets often found in North America.
While 95% of global helium is currently a byproduct of the oil and gas industry, Hotspur is focused on "primary helium" exploration. This ensures a stable supply that isn't subject to the volatility of LNG market prices.
Helium is irreplaceable in high-growth sectors, specifically semiconductor manufacturing, MRI scanners, and space exploration. Each SpaceX launch, for instance, consumes roughly 6% of daily global helium production.
Since its founding in 2024, the company has acquired 20,000 square kilometres of acreage. They aim to finalise surface exploration in 2026, begin drilling in 2028, and bring the first helium online by 2030.
BEST MOMENTS
"Hotspur Helium... holds the largest multinational primary helium portfolio globally."
"Someone said to me the other day, 'Oh, so you're elephant hunting.' And that's essentially what we're doing... we're the first people through the door and we're able to acquire the best acreage."
"Right now, is helium the tail on the dog or is it the flea on the end of the tail of the dog? Right now, given the size of the LNG industry, it's pretty small... "
"It's an extremely lucrative commodity... worth something like 200 to 300 times that of natural gas”
GUEST RESOURCES
Web: www.hotspurhelium.com
Email: info@hotspurhelium.com
LinkedIn (Hotspur): https://www.linkedin.com/company/hotspurhelium/
LinkedIn (TE): https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-elliott-230731316
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode we chat to Jamie Strauss, CEO and co-founder of Digbee, a company working at the intersection of mining, capital markets, and sustainability. Jamie has spent decades observing the mining industry through multiple cycles—booms, busts, and long stretches where the sector struggled for relevance with investors and the broader public.
In this conversation, we’ll step back from short-term commodity noise and dig into the deeper structural questions facing mining today: what the industry keeps getting wrong, why ESG has become such a polarising concept, and where sustainability and credibility genuinely translate into financial value rather than narrative. We’ll also explore some uncomfortable truths about mine development and operation, the most under appreciated opportunities hiding in plain sight, and what ultimately breaks if the sector continues to rely on the same playbook as it heads toward 2026. We talk about execution, trust, and whether mining can evolve fast enough to meet the world’s growing dependence on its outputs—without losing its licence to operate along the way.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The mining industry often suffers from optimism bias, where management teams underestimate risks and overestimate timelines for project completion
Despite skepticism surrounding ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, there is a growing recognition that responsible mining practices can lead to lower operational risks
To regain trust, companies must communicate transparently about their operations and sustainability efforts, demonstrating accountability and responsibility to investors, communities, and regulators.
Companies that effectively integrate sustainability into their operations tend to outperform their peers. By focusing on responsible practices, these companies can reduce risks and enhance their market position
BEST MOMENTS
"Every cycle, the industry convinces itself that this time is going to be different."
"The biggest problem with that in the current market is most of the money is coming from private equity, and they have seven-year lives, typically."
"The industry has done a terrible job of communicating this... We have just not proven it."
"If you can begin to demonstrate how you're taking care of your workers... you tend to end up with less problems."
GUEST RESOURCES
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiestrauss/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/digbee/
https://digbee.com/
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Paul Barrett, CEO of Rome Resources, a company working on the front lines of tin, copper, and zinc exploration at a time when critical minerals have never been more in focus.
We’ll unpack what it really takes to operate in the DRC, how Rome has kept momentum through regional uncertainty, and where newly raised capital is being deployed as the company looks toward 2026 and beyond. Paul will also share his views on value creation from potential partnerships or integration with bigger players, to Rome’s own path forward, along with insights from his career and the experienced team behind him.
And with global M&A heating up in the mining sector, we’ll explore whether consolidation may be part of Rome’s future, and how shifting demand for tin and other metals could reshape opportunities ahead.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Rome Resources operates in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which presents unique challenges such as regional instability and complex regulatory requirements
Rome Resources recently raised £2 million to fund a drilling program targeting deeper, wider intercepts of tin and copper. The company aims to complete this drilling by early 2024, with plans to update resource estimates shortly thereafter.
The tin market is expected to remain strong due to its critical role in technology and manufacturing, while copper demand is also projected to grow, particularly in infrastructure projects
The company is exploring potential partnerships, particularly with nearby Alphamin, to enhance value creation
BEST MOMENTS
"The level of scientific rigour put to drilling holes in the ground for mining is much, much less... I'm trying to bring some of that science in, especially some of the stratigraphic work."
"We have a dialogue with IRH on that particular project... extracting Kalai and putting it through Alphamin's facility will not require much in the way of modification."
"The tin market is a fascinating market... it's quite small... and of course that then means that it's quite volatile in terms of price reaction to supply hiccups."
“We’re concentrating really on adding that value, taking that a bit deeper and seeing where we get to with this next drilling program."
GUEST RESOURCES
https://romeresources.com/
https://x.com/Rome_Resources
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rome-resources-ltd/
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In todays show, we're joined by Farhad Abasov, Chairman of Millennial Potash, a listed miner who are advancing the Banio Potash Project in Gabon, West Africa, a large, low-cost potash deposit strategically located on the Atlantic coast.
Farhad is a veteran mining executive with over $3B in exits. We dig into the real impact of China’s production drop, the rise of Africa’s Atlantic potash corridor, and how Millennial just delivered a 275% jump in Measured and Indicated resources.
Farhad breaks down what +100 metres of cumulative potash thickness means for solution mining, how far the system could extend beyond the 5% drilled area, and the toughest technical challenges posed by ERCOSPLAN. We also look at how the U.S. DFC-funded Feasibility Study evolves with this new data, what risks have now been de-risked, and what it means for future supply into Brazil, the U.S and Africa.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Millennial Potash has reported a 275% increase in measured and indicated resources, raising the total from 1.7 billion tons to over 6 billion tons, indicating a substantial potential for the Banio Potash project.
The project is strategically located on the Atlantic coast of Gabon, allowing for competitive shipping costs to key markets such as Africa, Brazil, and the Eastern seaboard of the U.S
The Gabonese government is actively developing infrastructure, including a new port and power facilities, which will support the potash project and enhance operational efficiency.
The thickness of the potash deposit, exceeding 100 meters in some areas, will allow for larger caverns, further reducing operational costs.
BEST MOMENTS
"We think that the drilling that took place last year and this year removes a lot of that technical risk. Now we know that the resource is large, capable of producing at a significant scale."
“This was a major milestone for us... we did not expect that it would go up this much. We basically took the resource from 1.7 billion tons all the way to over 6 billion tons."
"We think this is going to have a huge impact on supply, specifically for Africa, Brazil, and the Eastern seaboard of the U.S."
"We have very good understanding of the southern part of the property... we think that mineralization actually is quite continuous."
GUEST RESOURCES
Millennial Potash Social Media Links
Website:
https://millennialpotash.com/
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/millennial-potash-corp
X:
https://x.com/MLPotash
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/MLPotash
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ml_potash
YouTube
www.youtube.com/@MLPotash
Ticker Symbols:
(TSXV: MLP | OTCQB: MLPNF | FSE: X0D)
Email: ir@trxgold.com
Tel: (437) 224-5241
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Stephen Mullowney, CEO of TRX Gold, who are a listed mining company with its flagship project, the Buckreef Gold Project in Tanzania.
Stephen’s going to unpack the human side behind Buckreef’s rapid growth: the moments that forced him to rethink his approach, the wins that mattered more to people than markets, and the misconceptions outsiders still hold about this industry.
We explore how leaders handle unpopular decisions, where the real bottlenecks are at site level, the technologies reshaping operations and the ones that haven’t lived up to the hype. We’ll also look beyond production metrics to ask a bigger question: what does success truly look like for TRX in the next five years, and how sustainable is its current growth path?
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Effective leadership in the mining industry involves understanding the human side of operations, making decisions that prioritise long-term success over short-term gains, and empowering team members to contribute to decision-making processes.
Many people mistakenly attribute a mining company's success solely to commodity prices. While prices do play a role, a strong focus on operational efficiency, growth, and cost discipline is crucial for sustainable success, regardless of market fluctuations.
Mining operations face numerous bottlenecks at various stages, from drilling and blasting to crushing and milling. Identifying and addressing these bottlenecks is essential for maintaining efficiency and productivity.
The mining industry is gradually adopting new technologies, particularly in areas like exploration and communication.
BEST MOMENTS
"Mining is a commodity space, and a lot of people give credit for success based on the commodity price, but if you don't keep a good focus on growth and cost discipline, it doesn't matter what commodity price you have."
"There's always a bottleneck, and there's always a problem, and it's always in a different spot. Mining has so many little things along the process timeline that can knock you down."
"I think technology is really going to help us on the exploration side. We're doing studies now to identify new structures, and competing technology can be good there."
"I think the model of not diluting has been good for TRX at Buckreef, and it could continue. I don't see any reason why it can't."
GUEST RESOURCES
● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TRXGoldCorp
● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trx-gold-corporation/
Email: ir@trxgold.com
Tel: (437) 224-5241
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Mail: rob@mining-international.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast
Web: http://www.mining-international.org
CONTACT METHOD
rob@mining-international.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
Podcast Description
Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/















thank
Thank you for this podcast. The pronunciation of the speaker is very clear for me. I understood almost all podcast.
Rob, great podcast. Very relevant to mining professionals and good shares from specific situations from others in the mining industry throughout the world. This is a good forum for discussing and hearing about niche and particular issues in our industry.
Hi Rob! Thanks again for starting this Podcast. Great insights into the industry, especially useful for graduates and anyone thinking about mining as a career. Cheers, Shannon
Absolute top notch podcast, I just started my story in mining so all of the DigDeep podcasts are fantastic to understand how mining works
The podcast is both an insightful and refreshing look at the industry. Particularly useful as I transition from university to a career in mining.