Stories Unlocked

What does it take to walk away from corporate success and build something driven by passion? In this episode of Stories Unlocked, Ari sits down with Peter Papas, founder of Kazzi Beach Greek, to explore his journey from growing up in a Greek immigrant family in Perth to building successful international businesses and eventually creating one of Sydney's recognisable Greek hospitality brands. From corporate finance in London and New York to launching businesses and navigating major acquisitions, Peter shares the experiences, risks and lessons that shaped his career. But despite his success in the corporate world, his connection to his Greek heritage inspired him to pursue something different: bringing the authentic Greek island taverna experience to Australia. In this episode, we explore:- Growing up Greek in Australia and overcoming childhood challenges.- Building international businesses and achieving financial success.- Taking risks and knowing when to walk away from opportunities.- The inspiration behind Kazzi Beach Greek.- Overcoming the challenges of entering the hospitality industry.- Building a brand around culture, authenticity and community.- Peter's biggest lessons on business, success and finding purpose.An inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, cultural identity and why success isn't always measured by money. Subscribe to Stories Unlocked for more conversations with entrepreneurs, founders and individuals sharing the stories behind their success.#storiesunlocked #peterpapas #kazzibeachgreek #entrepreneurship #businesspodcast

From growing up in a housing commission flat in Redfern to becoming an NRL premiership winner and one of rugby league's most respected halfbacks, Adam Reynolds' journey is a story of resilience, family, sacrifice and proving people wrong.In this episode of Stories Unlocked, host Ari sits down with NRL star Adam Reynolds to uncover the story behind his rise from humble beginnings in Sydney to achieving his childhood dream of playing professional rugby league.Growing up across the road from Redfern Oval, football was always part of Adam's life. Raised in a close-knit family, he experienced both the challenges and the strong sense of community that shaped his childhood. With a passion for rugby league and the determination to succeed, Adam worked his way through junior football, eventually earning his opportunity with the South Sydney Rabbitohs.But his journey wasn't without setbacks.From becoming a father at a young age and balancing family responsibilities with his rugby league ambitions to overcoming a serious knee injury before his NRL debut, Adam reflects on the moments that tested his determination and shaped the person he is today.He also opens up about winning the 2014 NRL Grand Final with South Sydney, the disappointment of leaving the club he had always dreamed of representing, and the life-changing decision to move his family to Brisbane and join the Broncos.Beyond the football field, Adam shares his approach to handling pressure, staying level-headed in high-stakes moments, dealing with criticism and building a legacy that extends beyond sporting achievements.Throughout the conversation, we discover a different side of Adam Reynolds. A devoted family man, entrepreneur and athlete who values character, loyalty and the lessons learned through adversity.IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:- Growing up in Redfern and Waterloo housing commission- His childhood, family influences and passion for rugby league- Meeting his wife at 15 and becoming a young father- Working for Leichhardt Council before establishing his NRL career- Overcoming an ACL injury before his 2012 NRL debut- Winning the 2014 premiership with the South Sydney Rabbitohs- The disappointment and difficult conversations behind leaving South Sydney- Starting a new chapter with the Brisbane Broncos- The lessons learned from the 2023 NRL Grand Final against Penrith- Managing pressure, criticism and setbacks as a professional athlete- His "next job" mindset and staying emotionally balanced- The importance of family, leadership and leaving a positive legacy- His autobiography, "On My Own Terms"- Building his clothing brand and exploring life beyond rugby leagueFrom childhood dreams to premiership victories and life-changing decisions, this conversation goes beyond rugby league to explore the mindset and values behind Adam Reynolds' success.A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORThis episode of Stories Unlocked is proudly sponsored by Black Diamond Solar.During the conversation, Adam shares his personal experience working with Black Diamond Solar, upgrading his home's solar and battery system, and gaining a better understanding of his family's energy usage.ABOUT STORIES UNLOCKEDStories Unlocked takes you beyond the success stories to uncover the experiences, challenges and defining moments that shape extraordinary people.Through genuine, in-depth conversations with athletes, entrepreneurs, business leaders and influential personalities, host Ari explores the journeys behind their achievements and the lessons they've learned along the way.LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBEEnjoyed this conversation?Like this video, subscribe to Stories Unlocked and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.Let us know in the comments: What's the biggest lesson you've taken away from Adam Reynolds' journey?

From growing up in France to building one of Sydney’s most talked-about gluten-free bakeries, Sébastien’s journey is anything but ordinary.In this episode of Stories Unlocked, host Ari sits down with Sébastien, founder of Sébastien Sans Gluten, to explore his journey as a French pastry chef, the challenges that shaped his career, and how he turned his passion for baking into a thriving Sydney business.Raised by a single mother alongside three siblings in the suburbs of Paris, Sébastien’s story took him across France, the Caribbean, London, Egypt and eventually Australia. Along the way, he faced career setbacks, financial struggles and moments that forced him to start over.After years of working in hospitality, Sébastien discovered gluten-free baking and saw an opportunity to bring traditional French pastry techniques to a new audience.In March 2022, he opened Sébastien Sans Gluten. The bakery sold out by 10am on opening day, with customers continuing to line up over the following weeks.In this episode, we cover:Growing up in France and the CaribbeanDiscovering his passion for French pastryNavigating career setbacks and financial challengesMoving to London and eventually AustraliaFinding his place in the world of gluten-free bakingStarting a bakery during COVID-19The overwhelming response to Sébastien Sans Gluten's openingThe realities of building and running a small businessLessons in resilience, family, entrepreneurship and following your passionThis conversation goes beyond the success of a bakery. It's about taking risks, embracing change and building something meaningful through determination and years of experience.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, business owner or simply love hearing the stories behind successful brands, this episode is worth a listen.ABOUT STORIES UNLOCKEDHosted by Ari, Stories Unlocked brings you real conversations with entrepreneurs, business owners and individuals who have carved their own paths.We go beyond the highlights to uncover the challenges, decisions and defining moments behind their journeys.Follow Stories Unlocked on Spotify for more conversations about business, entrepreneurship, resilience and personal growth.FOLLOW & CONNECTGuest: Sébastien Sans GlutenInstagram: @sebastiensansglutenPodcast Instagram: @storiesunlocked.podcastWatch the full episode on YouTube and follow Stories Unlocked on Spotify for future episodes.#storiesunlocked #sebastiensansgluten #entrepreneurship #glutenfreebakery #businesspodcast

Paul Gallen joins Stories Unlocked for a raw conversation about the journey behind one of Australian rugby league’s most recognisable careers.From growing up in Western Sydney and earning just $5,000 on his first Cronulla Sharks contract, to captaining the club to a premiership, representing New South Wales and Australia, and eventually stepping into professional boxing, Gallen opens up about the discipline and mindset that shaped his career.Paul also discusses his fight with Sonny Bill Williams, their long-running rivalry, his approach to pressure and criticism, managing money as a young athlete, family, fatherhood, life after professional sport and the importance of always having something to work towards.In this episode:• Growing up in Guildford and Greystanes• Starting rugby league as a kid• His early Cronulla Sharks career• Earning $5,000 on his first contract• Winning the 2016 NRL Premiership• Playing State of Origin and for Australia• Building financial security outside football• Transitioning from the NRL into boxing• His rivalry with Sonny Bill Williams• Life after professional sport• Family, fatherhood and motivation• Why discipline and patience matter mostThis episode of Stories Unlocked is proudly supported by SBS Fencing & Toilet Hire.Subscribe to Stories Unlocked for more conversations with athletes, business owners, entrepreneurs and personalities sharing the stories behind their success.

From freestyling as a child in Thessaloniki to earning hundreds of millions of streams and performing around the world, FY always believed he was destined for something bigger.In this episode of Stories Unlocked, FY opens up about growing up with ADHD, releasing music at 15, losing friends as he took his career seriously and creating the project that changed his life at just 17.He also discusses discipline, staying away from drugs and alcohol, building a strong relationship, performing across Greece and why consistency matters more than motivation.Recorded in Sydney during FY’s Australian tour, this is an honest conversation about Greek rap, ambition, identity and trusting the process.#storiesunlocked #fy #greekrap #greekmusic #SydneyPodcast #sydneyaustralia #thessaloniki #athens #australiantour

Born and raised Greek-Australian, Con Damouras has dedicated his life to preserving tradition, building businesses, and shaping Sydney’s café culture. As the visionary behind Bar Italia, one of Leichhardt’s most iconic Italian café-restaurants, he carries forward a legacy of hard work, resilience, and authentic hospitality.His journey began with humble beginnings. His father arrived in Australia by ship, bringing with him the family’s olive oil business. Growing up in Belmaine, Con was a popular kid at Belmaine High, but life was far from easy. His older brother’s struggles in a psychiatric ward left a deep impact on him, fueling his drive to succeed.By 22 years old, Con’s passion for luxury and ambition led him to buy a Rolls-Royce, inspired by the dream of driving someone to the Opera House. At 24, he was married, balancing family life with his growing ventures in Sydney’s café scene. From running coffee shops and a pizza shop to managing a wedding car business, Con built a reputation for quality, service, and tradition.But his biggest mark? Bar Italia. Located in the heart of Little Italy, Sydney, it remains a timeless institution, serving home-style Italian meals, paninos, and legendary gelato. A place where cash is king, service is brisk, and flavors transport you straight to Italy.In Stories Unlocked, Con dives deep into his Greek heritage, family history, childhood, business ventures, and the lasting impact of Bar Italia.🍝 Authentic Italian & Greek Culture | ☕ The Sydney Café Scene | 🎙️ Stories of Passion & Legacy🎧 Subscribe now and never miss an episode!👉 Available on all major platforms.🎥 Our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@storiesunlocked/featured

From Greece to Sydney, from restaurateur to social media star. YiaYia Helen Dedes shares her incredible journey With Stories Unlocked.Born into a tight-knit Greek family, YiaYia Helen witnessed history firsthand when an invasion changed the course of her life at just nine years old. At 21 years old, she set sail for Australia on a 40-day boat journey, leaving behind her homeland to build a new future.Married in 1967 in Greece, she and her late husband worked tirelessly to create Dedes Waterfront Group, one of Sydney’s most recognized restaurant chains. From humble beginnings, their dedication to Greek hospitality and flavors left a lasting impact. After years in the industry, she passed the business on to her son, Con, and embraced retirement.Now, she shares authentic Greek recipes, traditions, and life wisdom through YiaYia’s Kitchen on Facebook and YIAYIA’S GREEK KITCHEN on Instagram. Her mission? To preserve Greek culture, connect generations, and inspire people to think positively."Home is where the heart is. Think positive." – YiaYia HelenIn Stories Unlocked, she dives into her childhood, journey to Australia, family, restaurant success, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.🍽️ Greek Cuisine & Tradition | 🇬🇷 Family & Heritage | 🎙️ Wisdom & Life Lessons🎧 Subscribe now and never miss an episode!👉 Available on all major platforms.🎥 Our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@storiesunlocked/featured

From humble beginnings to building a café empire, Charlie El-Hachem shares his incredible journey in Stories Unlocked.Born to Lebanese parents who met in Sydney, Charlie grew up in housing commissions, learning the values of family, hard work, and resilience. As the oldest of three brothers, he navigated culture shock, school, and the challenges of mixed communities, all while working alongside his father and brother in hospitality.His passion for business led him to study Civil Engineering and Business Economics, while gaining hands-on experience in the CBD’s liquor and restaurant industry. At 20, he embarked on a life-changing journey, 40 countries in 40 days (Tunketi) expanding his mindset and fueling his ambition. Within just a few years, he built 10 cafés, setting the stage for something even bigger.Now at 40 years old, Charlie is the founder of Piccolomi, a thriving café brand with 45 locations, a devoted husband of 15 years, and a proud father of four children. His philosophy? "Surround yourself with the right people. Family. Legacy. When you stop believing, you start breaking up."With Stories Unlocked, Charlie takes you through his background, struggles, and triumphs, sharing real lessons in business, family, and resilience.🎧 Subscribe now and never miss an episode!👉 Available on all major platforms.🎥 Our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@storiesunlocked/featured

From stacking pizza boxes at 13 to running a high-performing digital marketing agency, Matthew Mazzotta has built his success from the ground up.Born into a hardworking family, his father a Telstra technician and DJ, his mother a skilled dressmaker. Matthew learned early that discipline and persistence were the keys to success. Growing up with three younger brothers, he developed a strong sense of responsibility and ambition.By 16, he was working behind a bar, taking shifts at Qudos Bank Arena, and later studying Business Commerce at Macquarie University. At 20, he discovered his passion for marketing through school case studies, leading him to climb the ranks in management before stepping out on his own.Now at 28, Matthew is the founder of DNM Digital, a results-driven marketing agency specializing in SEO, Google, and Meta Ads that help online brands scale their profits. His vision for the next five years? To build a reputable, premium, and performance-based business that delivers real results.In this podcast, Matthew shares his story, his upbringing, early jobs, the lessons learned, and the mindset shifts that shaped his entrepreneurial journey. Get insights into business, digital marketing, and the hustle it takes to build something from scratch.💡 Business & Entrepreneurship | 🚀 Digital Marketing | 🎙️ Real Stories & Lessons🎧 Subscribe now and never miss an episode!👉 Available on all major platforms.🎥 Our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@storiesunlocked/featured

Join Haris Strangas as he dives into his journey from his Greek-Australian upbringing to his role as a Sutherland Shire Councillor for the Liberals. Haris is dedicated to giving back to the community, supporting small businesses by cutting red tape, and championing local sustainability, sports, and safety initiatives.Beyond politics, he is the visionary behind Olympus, Australia’s biggest Greek nightlife event, bringing Greek culture to the global stage.In this podcast, Haris shares his story, childhood, teenage years, and the balance of living in two worlds. He reveals what led him to politics, his passion for community service, and his present-day life as a leader and cultural influencer.🔵 Politics & Passion | 🎶 Greek Nightlife | 🌍 Community & Culture🎧 Subscribe now and never miss an episode!👉 Available on all major platforms.🎥 Our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@storiesunlocked/featured