Tonksy Media Podcast

This week on the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with Klayten aka GetClean for one of the most raw, unfiltered, and powerful conversations we’ve ever had.We dive deep into Klayten’s chaotic childhood, where he was using drugs intravenously by the age of 12, bouncing between boys’ homes, foster care, welfare, and eventually adult prison. His life spiraled out of control — but this episode uncovers the truth behind the headlines.We also tackle the infamous internet trend surrounding his recent relationship breakdown, a situation riddled with false allegations that blew up across social media.Just one week after filming this episode, Klayten was locked up again, making this a raw and real account before everything changed.This is an episode you do not want to miss — one filled with truth, redemption, and resilience.LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/19HVUSQMmJ/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getcleanofficialpage?igsh=OHJocHp5dTg0cnMxTiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@getcleanofficial?_t=ZS-8zl54k2Ok0m&_r=1#TonksyMediaPodcast #GetClean #KlaytenStory #AddictionRecovery #FromPrisonToPurpose #ChildhoodTrauma #MentalHealthAwareness #DrugAddiction #BreakingFree #RedemptionStory #SecondChances #RealLifeStories #UnfilteredConversations #PrisonToPodcast #BoysHomeToPrison #OvercomingAdversity #LifeAfterPrison #RiseAbove #NoMoreChains #SurvivorStory #AddictionAwareness #RawAndReal #TruthBehindTheHeadlines #DontMissThis #PowerfulPodcast

From the spotlight to the shadows… and back again. 🎤✨In this week’s episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with former Australian Idol winner Kate DeAraugo (@katedearaugo_official) for one of the most raw and powerful conversations I’ve ever had.Kate skyrocketed to fame after being crowned Australian Idol, but behind the bright lights came a battle with addiction, crime, and self-destruction. Her journey spiraled into some of her darkest days — but that’s not where her story ends.Today, Kate is 7.5 years clean, a devoted mother of two, and a strong advocate for recovery and mental health. Her comeback is living proof that hitting rock bottom isn’t the end — it can be the start of something greater.This episode is about resilience, redemption, and the unshakable power of choosing to fight back. Whether you’ve faced addiction yourself, supported someone through it, or just need inspiration to push through your own battles — Kate’s story will hit home.👉 Make sure to like, comment, share, and subscribe to help spread these powerful stories further.LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️Website - www.katedearaugo.com.auInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/katedearaugo_official?igsh=MWtsdjQxMmo0b3Bydw==Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1PLcvs1q8Q/Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@katedearaugo?_t=ZS-8zKz2b4D5BH&_r=1#tonksymediapodcast #katedearaugo #australianidolwinner #redemptionjourney #addictionawareness #7andahalfyearsclean #mentalhealthmatters #fromrockbottom #riseandredeem #healingispossible #breakingthestigma #rawconversations #truthandredemption #powerfulstories #motherhoodstrong #overcomeaddiction #lifeafteridols #faithandstrength #recoveryjourney #comebackstory #realandraw #dontgiveup #podcastinterview #australianidol #resilience

In this episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with two incredible people whose story is as real and inspiring as it gets – Aidan and Grace Herbaut.Aidan’s journey is one of pain, survival, and transformation. From growing up surrounded by addiction and chaos, to years lost in drugs, he hit a point where he knew his life had to change. Through faith, music, and resilience, he rebuilt himself from the ground up. Along that journey, he crossed paths with Grace – an independent artist with a powerful voice and a mission of her own. What began as friendship grew into love, and together they’ve turned their struggles into songs of hope and healing.In this episode, we dive into:🎵 Aidan’s rise from addiction to redemption through music and storytelling.💡 Grace’s unique journey as both a solo artist and as part of their duo.❤️ The way love and faith became their anchor through the darkest times.🌍 Their mission to inspire others by turning pain into purpose.This is one of those conversations that will move you, challenge you, and remind you that no matter your past, you have the power to create a better future.👉 Don’t miss this one – hit play, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and let their story light a fire in you.LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️AIDANInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/bautofficial?igsh=ZW5ob2x6YjVzZmZ0Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@officialbaut?_t=ZS-8z8JtQp0zeq&_r=1Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/1CAHlRE75LRUgyCNq68AeB?si=rUoDr1jKTXye0dACXfli8gGRACEInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/graceluisa?igsh=MTcyb3BhOW9rbzQ4bQ==Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@graceluisa?_t=ZS-8z8JuV2iApc&_r=1Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4TsDR2lgk4Nd9Zt5kw2gtD?si=WQb4JKmdRVuRXcJcmR6owA#TonksyMediaPodcast #AidanHerbaut #GraceHerbaut #tonksymediapodcast #aidanherbaut #graceherbaut #podcastseason2 #redemptionstory #musicjourney #frompaintonpurpose #addictionrecovery #faithandmusic #powerfulstories #rawandreal #independentartist #duoartists #musicandlove #turningpoint #lifeafteraddiction #inspiringjourneys #hopeandhealing #resilienceandfaith #musicwithmeaning #artiststorytelling #truthandpurpose #inspirationdaily #newepisodealert #mustlisten

In Episode 13 of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I’m joined by Dylan Meares — known in the hip-hop world as Mearsy. This is one of the most powerful and confronting conversations I’ve had to date.Mearsy’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. At just four years old, he lost his baby brother, who was only one. That tragedy sent shockwaves through his family and left his mother emotionally absent. By the time he was eight, Dylan found himself in the welfare system, growing up without the stability or love every kid deserves.Sadly, his early trauma paved the way for a troubled path. As a teenager, he became deeply involved in crime and violence, eventually earning a reputation as one of Tasmania’s most notorious young offenders. By the age of 28, he’d already spent a total of 12 years behind bars — nearly half his life gone.But his story doesn’t end there.While in prison, Mearsy discovered hip-hop as a lifeline. Through writing and music, he found a way to process his pain and channel his experiences into something meaningful. Today, he’s emerging as a force in the Australian hip-hop scene, using his art to shed light on issues many people would rather ignore — and to help others who are struggling in the dark places he’s been.In this episode, we explore:✅ The devastating loss of his younger brother and its lifelong impact✅ Growing up in the welfare system from the age of eight✅ The path from childhood trauma to serious criminality✅ Spending 12 years in prison before even reaching 30✅ How discovering hip-hop became his turning point✅ His mission to transform his past into purpose through musicThis episode is raw, confronting, and deeply inspiring. Mearsy’s story is proof that no matter how far someone has fallen, there’s always a chance to turn things around.Tune in to hear this incredible journey. And don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the Tonksy Media Podcast for more real and unfiltered stories.LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1CBxw77Tjn/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mearsy.1ftp?igsh=MXQ5cW9kZXo5ZWU2Ng==Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@dylanmeares655?_t=ZS-8xz8CvFn3Ni&_r=1

In this exclusive and emotional episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with Hope Richards — a familiar face across social media and a powerful voice in the addiction recovery space. But behind her viral reels and inspiring messages lies a story of unthinkable trauma, survival, and transformation.Hope was born into chaos — both of her parents were addicted to heroin. From a young age, she was placed into foster care, where she remained until she was nine years old. She experienced deep intergenerational trauma, abandonment, and a childhood that most wouldn’t survive. That pain led her down a dark road of drug addiction, violence, and self-destruction.But Hope didn’t stay down.What followed was a journey of raw self-discovery and resilience. After reaching her rock bottom, she chose recovery — not just for herself, but for her children, her future, and for the thousands who now look up to her.This is the first time Hope shares her full story publicly — exclusive to the Tonksy Media Podcast. It’s unfiltered. It’s confronting. And it’s exactly what some people out there need to hear right now.If you’ve ever battled with addiction, trauma, or felt like giving up — this one is for you.WATCH IT. SHARE IT. FEEL IT.🎙️ New episodes every Sunday @ 6pm AEST🔗 Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.📢 Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and let’s break the stigma together.LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hoperichards.1994?igsh=MXFvcHM3M296dDlzMg==Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/174VtB7DCb/Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.richards94?_t=ZS-8yYJSGXPlIe&_r=1

In this incredibly raw and powerful episode, I sit down with Kellie Carter-Bell — a mother, grandmother, survivor, and absolute warrior.From being gang raped between the ages of 11 and 13…To living in a world of intergenerational trauma, growing up in the shadows of the gangland underworld…To surviving decades of brutal domestic violence, including a near-fatal attack by her ex-husband with a filleting knife…Kellie doesn’t hold back. With scars that stretch from her body to her soul, she shares the battles she’s fought — and the demons she’s defeated — to become the strong, outspoken woman she is today.We talk:Surviving sexual assault and violenceThe aftermath of trauma and finding your voiceWhat it means to raise kids and grandkids after living through absolute hellWhy silence is never the answerAnd the message she has for every woman (and man) in Australia living in fear.This episode is not for the faint-hearted — it’s for the people who need hope. For those who’ve felt voiceless. For anyone who’s ever wondered if they could make it out alive.TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains explicit discussions of sexual assault, child abuse, and domestic violence. Please take care while watching.💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss a story this real.🎙️ Available on all major platforms — but this one hits different.LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kelliecarterbell?igsh=MW05NDBhYnJzZWc0YQ==Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1SnZmxp3ZD/

In this week’s gripping episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, we sit down with Damian “Wildman” Duffy — a man who was quite literally born into chaos. His life began in the shadow of one of Australia’s most violent and infamous moments: the Milperra Massacre, a deadly shootout between the Comancheros and Bandidos motorcycle clubs. His father, a Comanchero involved in the massacre, was sent to prison for the first five years of Damian’s life.With a childhood marked by abandonment, instability, and trauma, Wildman was shuffled between relatives, bounced from school to school, and never truly felt like he belonged. At 17, he joined the Australian Army hoping to find structure — but even there, the bullying continued and the feeling of disconnection deepened.But Damian had a dream. A wild, dangerous, childhood dream — to work with crocodiles. And he made it happen.From the heavy metal scene in Brisbane to remote crocodile-filled rivers in Far North Queensland, Wildman’s journey is one of grit, rebellion, and raw survival. He opens up about the day he was bitten on the shoulder by a crocodile during a boat tour with 26 terrified tourists on board, and how that moment didn't break him — it built him.This episode is a raw, unfiltered look into the life of a man who’s faced the odds, stared down trauma, and carved out his own wild path.If you’ve ever felt like you were born into a storm — this one’s for you. 🌪️🐊LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wildmanadventures?igsh=MTN2bW1vdzZtczh3MQ==Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/15qLigGugm/

In this deeply moving episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, host Braiden Tonks sits down with Mitch Currie, who, for the first time, publicly shares his experience of being sexually abused at the age of 10 by an older boy. Mitch opens up about the profound impact this trauma had on his life, leading to years of suppressed rage, violence, and addiction. Through candid conversation, Mitch discusses his journey toward healing, highlighting the transformative power of breathwork, self-reflection, and confronting his past. This episode is a testament to resilience and the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity. It's a must-watch for anyone seeking understanding, connection, and hope in the face of trauma. ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of sexual abuse and trauma, which may be distressing to some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. 📞 Support Resources:If you or someone you know is affected by sexual abuse, please reach out to the following resources for support:1800RESPECT – National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling ServiceLifeline Australia – 13 11 14 LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mitch.currie?igsh=bnY2ZHhhNjN2MnJtFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/19LGbPvimU/Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mitchcurrie?_t=ZS-8wdONh9Ppns&_r=1

In this special tribute episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with my brother Shannon Althouse and our guest, podcast sponsor Danny Lloyd from Inside Out Coaching, for a raw and emotional conversation dedicated to the life and memory of Chase Atkinson. Chase was more than just a former guest—he was a mate, a fighter, and a soul who touched many lives. In this episode, we reflect on the impact he had, the legacy he leaves behind, and the brutal reality of what so many are silently battling every day. This one’s deeper than most. Real talk, from the heart. We open up about grief, growth, and the importance of showing up for each other—before it's too late. Rest easy, Chase. Your story lives on. Subscribe, like, and share if this message hits home. Let’s keep the conversation alive. SHANNON LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/althouse_shannon_pengarte?igsh=MnNvemVqZ3l5c2V1 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/16EzDdvZ1n/ DANNY LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/insideout_coach.official?igsh=MWJ2MjRhcW8wdHh1cQ== Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/15pTnWSn12/

For the past 20 months, Glenn “Patey” Pate has lived every day on edge — waiting for the one call that could save his life. In this deeply emotional episode, we sit down with Patey as he opens up about what it really feels like to be on the heart transplant waiting list. This isn’t just a story about surgery — it’s about survival, faith, fear, and the silent war that plays out in your mind while you’re stuck in limbo. Some episodes shake you... this one will break you open — and rebuild you with perspective. Tune in, share it around, and prepare yourself — this one hits different. LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pateytattooartist?igsh=YnQ1czJxODQxcWpm Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1BqHAN8Ut7/ Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@glennpate?_t=ZS-8w3t7ZIMcPS&_r=1

In Episode 8 of Season 2 of the Tonksy Media Podcast, Rebel AJ Graham drops the truth bombs the government never wanted you to hear. AJ was a founding member of the Rebels MC in Tasmania — but that’s not why he was targeted. After spending almost four decades in Australia, AJ became one of over 4,000 victims of Peter Dutton’s corrupt immigration crackdown. Visa cancelled. Locked away in Goulburn Supermax. Stripped of his freedom. And just when the High Court was about to rule in his favour — Peter Dutton personally changed the law to make sure AJ lost everything. This wasn’t justice. This was political warfare. AJ’s story exposes the dark, dirty reality of Australian politics — a system that tore apart lives for power and headlines. This is bigger than one man. This is about every person who got crushed under a corrupt system and left with no voice. Tonight, AJ speaks. And the truth can’t be silenced. Brace yourself. This episode will shake you. LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aj_graham?igsh=MTc2bTRmNnU0ajA0Mg== Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1YKqk86H9A/

In this raw and powerful episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with Kieran from KPhit—a bloke who turned a life of drug and alcohol-fuelled chaos into a journey of transformation, discipline, and purpose. Kieran shares the truth about his past, the rock-bottom moment that changed everything, and how he rebuilt himself into a mindset and fitness coach helping others find their strength—mentally, physically, and spiritually. This is one for anyone who’s been lost, broken, or ready to rise. LINKS ⬇️⬇️⬇️ Installation- https://www.instagram.com/kphit.confidence?igsh=MTg0N2VlcngzaXluNw== Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe. New episodes drop weekly.

In this powerful and raw episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with Shane Stein, a man who has lived through the depths of addiction, crime, prison, and tragedy—yet refuses to be broken. Shane spent 28 years behind bars, convicted of numerous armed robberies and other serious crimes, while trapped in a vicious cycle of heroin and ice addiction. But after finally earning his freedom, life took a cruel turn—just two weeks after his release, he was run over by a taxi, leaving him unable to walk again for the rest of his life. Despite everything, Shane’s story isn’t just about pain. It’s about resilience, redemption, and rebuilding life from rock bottom. We talk about his battle with addiction, his life of crime, surviving the prison system, and how he’s now found purpose beyond his struggles. LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shanestein03?igsh=MWpwbXg4cWxvcHplMw== Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1DJsj33uNQ/

In this raw and unfiltered episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with Chris Stevens—one of the most unapologetic voices on social media today. Chris is a man who has lived both the highs of success and the lows of addiction, and he's not afraid to speak the truth about it all. For nearly 20 years, Chris was caught in the grips of alcohol and drug addiction, all while managing to run a multi-million dollar business. But as his addiction took hold, the empire he built began to crumble, leaving him at rock bottom. Now, with almost 5 years of sobriety under his belt, Chris shares his journey of redemption, the harsh lessons learned, and how he's using his story to inspire others. Whether you love him or hate him, there’s no denying that Chris’s story is one of resilience, grit, and brutal honesty. Join us as we dive deep into the realities of addiction, the road to recovery, and the unshakeable mindset needed to rebuild a life from the ashes. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real-life stories of redemption and inspiration! LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kris_stephens_?igsh=MXd4bmdtaHJ3ODB5cw== Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/15tmjApX8Y/ Tiktok - kris_stephens_

In this powerful episode of the Tonksy Media Podcast, I sit down with Mark Antony, Australia’s most sought-after hypnotist, to dive deep into his incredible story. Born and raised in South East London, Mark opens up about his turbulent childhood, his time spent in juvenile detention, and the life-changing journey that led him to discover hypnotism. But this episode isn’t just about Mark. I, Braiden Tonks, get real and raw about my own struggles, including a recent relapse. Together, we explore how our pasts shaped us, the battles we continue to face, and the resilience it takes to rebuild and move forward. Tune in for an honest, inspiring, and emotional conversation that reminds us all of the power of transformation. LINKS ⬇️⬇️⬇️ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheHypnotistMarkAnthony?mibextid=ZbWKwL Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markanthonyhypnotist?igsh=bmJiZGt6ZDRqN2l6 Website - https://www.markanthonyevents.com/ Book - https://roguehypnotistbook.com/

In the highly anticipated Season 2 premiere of the Tonksy Media Podcast, Braiden sits down with Danny and Jordan, the powerhouse duo behind Inside Out Coaching. With raw honesty and deep insights, they dive into the transformative power of mindset, healing, and self-discovery. Danny and Jordan share their inspiring journeys from battling personal struggles to building a platform that empowers others to overcome adversity and create meaningful change. Together, they unpack the critical importance of self-awareness, the role of resilience, and how stepping into vulnerability can lead to lasting personal growth. This episode is packed with powerful stories, actionable advice, and the kind of motivation that will leave you ready to face life’s challenges head-on. Whether you’re looking to rebuild, refocus, or rise above, this conversation is for you. Don’t miss it!. LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ (Jordan Lockerbie) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_insideoutcoaching?igsh=MXd4MHhoZWs2MWxkbg== Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jordan.lockerbie.10?mibextid=ZbWKwL (Danny Lloyd) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/insideout_coach.official?igsh=MWJ2MjRhcW8wdHh1cQ== Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/danny.lloyd.10?mibextid=ZbWKwL

In this raw and insightful interview, Soul33 shares the deeply personal journey of building a multi-million-dollar construction company while grappling with an addiction to illicit drugs. Soul reveals the high-pressure world of running a thriving business and the profound struggles that surfaced as his company eventually crumbled, leading him down a path of trauma, loss, and suicidal attempts. As he recounts his lowest moments, Soul opens up about how he was introduced to the healing potential of Ayahuasca, a powerful plant-based medicine. Through vivid storytelling, Soul describes his transformative experience with Ayahuasca, detailing how it helped him confront his inner struggles, reframe his life, and rediscover hope. This interview serves as a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the unexpected paths to healing. LINKS⬇️⬇️⬇️ WEBSITE - www.soul33.com.au INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/__soul33__?igsh=cTlsYWR0dzYweTJm TIKTOK - https://www.tiktok.com/@soul33__?_t=8r1TbTYEsUL&_r=1

Shannon Alt House has recently started to blow up on social media after serving the last 10.5 years behind bars for attempted murder and also a vicious assault whilst in prison.. Behind this notorious, intimidating, former Rebels MC Sargent at Arms is a gentleman with a huge heart and a mission to help others.. Shannon was born in Darwin NT and raised in housing commission and aboriginal communities and from a young age he was on the streets, vandalising, stealing and using drugs.. He recalls stealing his mums car one time which resulted in his uncle coming and getting him and taking him to Adelaide where he went on to complete year 12.. Eventually moving back to darwin where he began to use ice and other heavy drugs which eventually lead him to join a 1% MC club and before long become the Sargent at Arms. After a revenge plot on rivals who tried to kill him, shannon went on the hunt and attacked them with machetes and axes and ended up going to prison for attempted murder.. Since being released he has become very well known throughout the NT for the great things he's doing to help the youth and to say the least I'm super excited to have him on the show to share his story in detail for the first time 🙏

Jamie Tall was born and raised in the state of Georgia USA from a traumatic upbringing filled with addiction to being saved by the almighty God, here is a abit of an insight on Jamie's story... After 20 years of addiction, I got arrested with a schedule 1,2,3,4&5 which was a typical Tuesday night for me. The judge gave me 4 years of felony probation and I realized at that moment I was going to prison if I didn’t get some help. I left behind a life of selling drugs and my body to get what I needed to survive. I owned a few escort services and eventually got busted in Polk County Florida where they made an example of me on the news. A few years later I ended up being trafficked and then miraculously was set free when I got arrested the last time. Since July 20, I have been free from the chains of addiction and served my community faithfully. I am a Recovery Coach certified through the state of Georgia where I advocate and speak out for addiction. I am also a business owner of an award winning Medical Massage Business where I train massage therapists to perform trauma informed massage to women and men who have experienced addiction, prostitution, and trafficking. Today I have purpose for my pain and get to be a role model for my children. I also teach a trauma informed women’s discipleship at a local church. My relationship with Jesus has changed my life.

Chase was born and raised in Darwin NT. A troubled upbring reflected on him always getting in fights at school and from the age of 14-15 he was popping ecstasy like tic tacs! At the age of 16 he was getting into nightclubs and fighting on a regular basis, this is where his career path of drug dealing and crime started. By the age of 21 he was serving his first sentence in an adult prison. By the time the ice trade hit Darwin, Chase was deep into using and selling it and living the the life that follows it, bashings, shooting etc! After going back to prison and serving a 3.5 year sentence, Chase has turned his life around and owes it to his beautiful partner Sarah-Mae who has stuck by him through thick and thin!!