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 music

This 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