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 headhu…
In this episode, we chat with Ryan Mee, CEO of Fulcrum Metals, who is an exploration company but has since repositioned itself as a tailings processor, an evolution summed up by its strapline: turning waste into gold. In our conversation, Ryan shares how Fulcrum is seizing this opportunity, not only to unlock value from historic mine waste but also to deliver real environmental and ESG benefits through remediation. We'll explore the company's projects in Canada, the opportunities and challenges of operating there, its partnership with Extrakt (extract) and their unique processing technology, and where Ryan sees the future of tailings reprocessing, whether as a niche or a mainstream part of the mining industry. Finally, we'll touch on what milestones investors and industry watchers should be looking out for as Fulcrum builds momentum in this exciting space. KEY TAKEAWAYS The company has partnered with Extract, utilising their cyanide-free processing technology, which has demonstrated high recovery rates and quick leach times, significantly improving the efficiency of tailings reprocessing. Fulcrum's strategy emphasises environmental remediation by reprocessing tailings, which not only recovers valuable minerals but also helps restore local ecosystems that have been affected by historical mining practices. The company has prioritised building relationships with local communities, including First Nations groups, to secure support for its projects and ensure a social license to operate. With increasing demand for critical minerals and a supportive regulatory environment in Canada, Fulcrum sees significant potential for tailings reprocessing to become a mainstream part of the mining industry BEST MOMENTS "We want to get into a production scenario... tailings, it's already mined material and it's sat at surface. We could literally walk onto the property and understand the properties of the asset a lot quicker." "This is real ESG in practice. It's new, innovative technologies... and you don't know what you're finding in those tailings because no one's ever tested those tailings for anything other than gold before." "We're not creating any more practices which are detrimental to the environment, but actually will help restore the environment. I see it as a bit of a no-brainer." "We're entering a really exciting time for Fulcrum... we've got a huge six months ahead of us, really excited, a lot of really important work and milestones that are going on for the company." 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 GUEST SOCIALS ● Social Media Links ○ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fulcrum-metals-plc/posts/?feedView=all ○ X - https://x.com/fulcrummetals?lang=en ● Website: https://fulcrummetals.com/ ● Email addresses ○ Investors: fulcrummetals@stbridespartners.co.uk ○ General Enquires: rmee@fulcrummetals.com 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 Bennett, Managing Director of Medallion Metals, who are on a pathway to transforming the landscape for gold and copper mining in Western Australia with its flagship Ravensthorpe Gold Project. They have been making headlines with a major upgrade at Ravensthorpe, a feasibility study on the horizon, and a transformational deal to acquire the Forrestania operation. We'll be talking with Paul about how the upgraded resource reshapes the mine plan, the path to a final investment decision, and how existing infrastructure at Forrestania could accelerate the company's journey to production. KEY TAKEAWAYS Medallion Metals is a pre-production gold and copper producer in Western Australia, with a market capitalization of approximately $230 million and $25 million in cash reserves. The company is focused on advancing its flagship Ravensthorpe Gold Project and aims to produce 70,000 to 80,000 ounces of gold per annum. The recent upgrade of the sulfide resource to nearly one million ounces has reshaped Medallion's development strategy, allowing for a more focused approach on the underground sulfide component A feasibility study is expected to be completed by the end of October, with key work streams including mining study optimisations and metallurgical test work BEST MOMENTS "The Sulfide Development Strategy has been transformational... it's all about compressing time, compressing capital to get to first production." "We expect that mine life will continue from there... we've unlocked the code now and we're getting closer and closer to production." "The cash balance is well and truly funds us through to final investment decision... we're really well placed in that sense." "We think there's a lot of upside... the deposit's relatively shallowly drilled. It's only drilled to an average depth of 100 metres." 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 GUEST SOCIALS X: https://x.com/MM8_Medallion Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medallion-metals-limited/ Website: https://medallionmetals.com.au/ Contact: info@medallionmetals.com.au 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 to Paul Weibel, CEO of 5E Advanced Materials, the company advancing the Fort Cady boron project in California. We'll explore Paul's path into mining and the leadership lessons he's carried to the C-suite; get a clear update on Fort Cady's status and key takeaways from the recent Preliminary Feasibility Study; and dig into why boron matters, its market size, the industries driving demand, and what that means for U.S. supply. KEY TAKEAWAYS 5E Advanced Materials focuses on boron extraction from a unique culminate deposit in California, which is the only one of its kind in the U.S. The company has been mining at a pilot scale for 20 months and is preparing for commercial production. Boron is critical for various applications, including glass production, ceramics, and advanced materials like boron carbide used in armour. The market for boron is expected to grow at an average rate of 5-6% annually The company is pursuing project debt financing as a primary means to fund its operations, targeting a $285 million facility from the U.S. Export-Import Bank The U.S. boron supply chain faces challenges due to tariffs and geopolitical dynamics, which have affected pricing and availability BEST MOMENTS "Boron is the fifth element on the periodic table. It has very unique chemical properties... it basically is critical to life as we know it." "This market is growing... on a weighted average basis, that market's growing at about 8%. This diversification is a bit of an insulator to low growth." "There's a ton of upside in this market. It's an oligopoly structure... the second largest producer is not around forever. They have a very defined mine life." "We want to get that agency debt... the USGS critical mineral list is basically the main policy form that gets cheaper agency financing available." 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 GUEST SOCIALS Ph # - +1 442-221-0225 Email - hello@5eadvancedmaterials.com https://x.com/5EAMaterials https://www.facebook.com/5EAdvancedMaterialsInc/ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtaY2C7EDECuT_RRqDC-pIVcqcKO1tAQd https://www.5eadvancedmaterials.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/5e-advanced-materials-inc 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 Simon Finnis, Managing Director of McLaren Minerals, a company that's been making waves in the critical minerals space since its recent listing. McLaren is advancing its titanium project in Western Australia, a region well known for its supportive mining environment. Titanium isn't always the first mineral that comes to mind in conversations around critical resources, but its applications and strategic importance are growing rapidly. With McLaren positioned right in the middle of that evolution, Simon is here to share insights into the company's progress, the broader titanium market, and how technology, community engagement, and smart strategy are shaping their journey. KEY TAKEAWAYS While titanium is not often the first mineral associated with critical resources, its applications in industries such as aerospace, medical, and pigments for paints are expanding rapidly, highlighting its strategic significance in the market. McLaren Minerals is advancing a sulphate ilmenite project in Western Australia, with a substantial inferred resource of 280 million tonnes at a grade of 4.8% heavy mineral. The market for sulphate ilmenite has seen a significant price increase, from $75-$85 per ton to $320-$350 per ton, driven by demand from smelters in the Middle East and China, which utilise the product for both titanium and iron production. McLaren is committed to conducting thorough environmental studies and community engagement as part of the permitting process BEST MOMENTS "Titanium metal is light, it's non-corrosive, so it's fantastic for replacement of body parts, but it's also fantastic for aerospace and other applications where you need light, strong metal." "The current market for sulphate ilmenite is between $320 and $350 a ton, so it's a huge change." "If your head grade of your mineral sand is say 6% and you take 25% slimes out, the grade of your ore going into your plant increases." "You've actually just got to do the work. You can't not do the test work that we've done and then expect things to work." 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 Dave Mitchell and David Van Kleeck of PJKT72, who are transforming the mining industry through blockchain tokenization and redefining resource ownership through blockchain tokenization. We're diving into a conversation at the intersection of blockchain and the natural world where two pioneers are aiming to reshape how we value, protect, and access the planet's raw materials. We discuss: What inspired the creation of MetWave — and how it's targeting real-world problems in mining and energy. The difference between MetWave Green and MetWave Black — and how this dual-token model could transform environmental protection and investment. What it really means to tokenize coal in situ — and why that's fundamentally different from traditional resource ownership. And whether this model could extend to other critical materials like lithium, rare earths, or even natural gas. KEY TAKEAWAYS The MetWave Green token provides a mechanism for environmental protection by allowing stakeholders to invest in keeping coal in the ground The use of blockchain technology and smart contracts enables verifiable and instantaneous transactions, improving traceability and efficiency in the coal supply chain While the current focus is on coal, the tokenisation model has the potential to be applied to other natural resources, such as graphite, graphene, and possibly rare earth elements BEST MOMENTS "The green token is an opportunity to leave the coal in place, providing a voice that hasn't existed before in how carbon is emitted into the atmosphere." "By tokenising it, what it's doing is opening up opportunities that had not been available to both public and private investors." "The smart contracts in the blockchain would enforce that, providing a transparent, permanent record of the transactions that are done." 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 GUEST SOCIALS Website: https://www.pjkt72.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pjkt72/ X: https://x.com/72pjkt 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 Artem Volynets, Founder, Chairman and CEO of ACG Metals Ltd whose vision is to consolidate the copper industry through a series of roll-up acquisitions targeting copper producers with best-in-class environmental, social, and governance (ESG) characteristics. Artem's career spans major leadership roles across the international mining sector, from steering large-scale M&A to developing assets in complex jurisdictions. Under his leadership, ACG Metals has been building a portfolio that blends strategic acquisitions with disciplined project execution. In this conversation, we'll dig into how Artem navigates competitive copper acquisitions without overpaying, approaches technical challenges with fresh thinking, and adapts plans based on community input. We'll also hear his take on jurisdictional surprises, the realities of operating in high-inflation environments, and the strategic moves he believes will set ACG Metals apart in the years ahead. KEY TAKEAWAYS ACG Metals is a relatively new player in the mining sector, having achieved substantial milestones within its first year ACG Metals differentiates itself in a competitive market by avoiding traditional auction processes and leveraging a strong network for deal sourcing. The company focuses on creating value through innovative transaction structures that include cash, shares, and milestone payments, fostering partnerships with sellers. ACG Metals' proactive approach has helped the company integrate into the local fabric, contributing to job creation and local budgets, which mitigates potential conflicts. BEST MOMENTS "We don't get our investment ideas from investment banks. We have a relatively large network of connections where we can source the deal ideas." "I like to think of mining assets as a big cash printing machine, and that gets me excited as a CEO of a public company." "The biggest risk in Turkey is to your waistline. The food is too good. Otherwise, I don't see any other operating risks." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://acgmetals.com/ https://x.com/ACGMetals https://www.linkedin.com/company/acgmetals/ https://www.youtube.com/@ACGMetals 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 Zolotov, co-founder and CTO of Razor Labs, who are a leading mining technology provider that delivers advanced predictive maintenance with its flagship product, DataMind AI™️. Razor Labs' AI Sensor Fusion technology provides real-time condition monitoring, root cause analysis, and prescriptive actions to prevent failures before they happen. Michael's a serial entrepreneur, an expert in AI, radar, and advanced analytics. He's built and led companies through IPOs and acquisitions, and helped scale Razor Labs globally. Most importantly, he pioneered AI Sensor fusion in mining and he's on the podcast today to discuss Razor Labs' origins, how DataMind AI uses Sensor Fusion to cut costly mining downtime through real-time monitoring, examples of fast ROI, its impact on maintenance practices, the transition to trusted AI systems, and future directions for AI in mining. KEY TAKEAWAYS Unplanned downtime in mining can lead to significant financial losses, often amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars per failure. The use of sensor fusion, akin to how doctors diagnose illnesses using multiple data sources, allows DataMind AI to identify failures that traditional sensors might miss. Clients have reported rapid returns on investment, with some achieving full payback within three months of implementing DataMind AI. This is largely due to the prevention of costly failures and reduced maintenance expenses. The transition to AI-driven systems in mining requires building trust among teams. DataMind AI provides evidence-based diagnostics, allowing maintenance teams to understand the rationale behind recommendations BEST MOMENTS "We identified the mining sector as a very high potential for AI disruption... essentially like an automated doctor for machines." "The uniqueness here is that it was a bootstrap company, and we actually reinvested the profits into the R&D of that product." "Traditional AI systems are black box... you cannot trust the model." "By monitoring continuously, you make sure that no matter whether it's deteriorating over three weeks or two weeks, you will be able to capture it." 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 GUEST SOCIALS Website: https://www.razor-labs.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/razor-technologies-inc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RazorLabsAI 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 have a returning guest who appeared back in Jan 2023 (Episode 307). Stefan Bernstein, CEO of GreenRoc Mining, a company focused on unlocking critical mineral resources in Greenland, with a particular spotlight on graphite at the Amitsoq project in South Greenland. We discuss the upcoming bulk sample program at the Amitsoq graphite project, progress on the Environmental Impact Assessment, and what's next for the AAM pilot plant. Stefan also shares an update on their Exploitation Licence application, community engagement in South Greenland, and his perspective on the region's evolving political landscape. KEY TAKEAWAYS Greenroc Mining, led by CEO Stefan, is dedicated to unlocking critical mineral resources in Greenland, particularly focusing on the Amitsoq Graphite Project A bulk sample collection is scheduled to take place soon, which will provide essential data for the pre-feasibility study and supply material for a pilot plant Ongoing baseline studies are crucial for obtaining a mining permit. The company is nearing completion of this year's studies, which are necessary to demonstrate background environmental conditions before mining operations commence. Greenroc is actively engaging with local communities and government entities in southern Greenland, fostering positive relationships and interest in the project BEST MOMENTS "We have defined a very large resource at Emitsog. It's a very rich deposit. We have more than 23 million tons of graphite or more than 20% graphite." "The reason we're collecting this bulk sample is really twofold. It's going to provide us with a lot of useful information about the crushing, grinding, flotation stages." "There's definitely a very positive attitude to the minerals industry in general and to the Amitok project specifically." "The exploitation license is really the political approval of the project. Then comes the mining permit, but that's more technical." 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/DigDeepThe GUEST SOCIALS https://greenrocmining.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenroc-mining-plc/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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 Patrick Thévoz, the co-founder and CEO of Flyability, and Michael Blake is the Product Manager at the company, who are a Swiss company dedicated to making the world's infrastructure safer and more efficient through innovative drone technology. The company has developed cutting-edge solutions that enable safe and efficient data collection in inaccessible and dangerous environments, serving over 1500 customers worldwide. In today's episode, we dive into the cutting-edge world of drone technology in mining with the team from Flyability. We're joined by Patrick and Mike, who bring technical depth and real-world experience to the table. From the capabilities and limitations of Flyability's Elios 3 drone to its growing adoption across mines worldwide, we unpack how this tech is transforming underground inspections. We'll explore what it's like to deploy the drone on-site, the kind of data it delivers, and how it fits into existing mining workflows. Plus, we tackle the bigger picture of what drives mines to adopt these solutions, and where this technology is heading next, including the role of AI and autonomy in mining's digital future. KEY TAKEAWAYS The use of drones in mining significantly enhances safety by reducing the need for human inspections in dangerous areas. The Elios 3 drone is equipped with various sensors, including LiDAR, thermal cameras, and ultrasonic thickness sensors, allowing for comprehensive data collection. It can create high-density point clouds and perform detailed inspections, which are crucial for mining operations. Flyability's technology is already being utilised by numerous mining companies worldwide, with a significant presence in regions like Canada, South Africa, and Latin America BEST MOMENTS "We started the business as a pure robotics play, pure hardware play, and gradually we started adding more and more sensors on board the machine." "The drone itself takes around five minutes to set up. It's very, very fast." "We estimate we're probably 1% of what could be done with this technology that is done currently. So, you know, growth, growth, growth." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://www.flyability.com/ https://www.facebook.com/flyability.elios/# https://www.linkedin.com/company/flyability/ https://www.instagram.com/fly_ability/ 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.
In this episode we chat to Dan Myerson, Executive Chairman and CEO of Foran Mining, a company at the forefront of the copper revolution and one of the only single-asset copper developers actively building a mine anywhere in the world.In this episode, we dig into why Foran remains undervalued despite its remarkable progress at the McIlvenna Bay project — now nearing 50% completion and on track for commercial production by mid-2026. Dan shares insights on market sentiment toward pre-production copper companies, the strategic importance of Foran's Saskatchewan jurisdiction, and why now might be a pivotal moment for investors to take a closer look. We also explore what lies beyond McIlvenna Bay, and how Foran is positioning itself in a copper market grappling with supply constraints and long-term demand growth. Stay tuned as we unpack the milestones, the macro trends, and the big vision driving one of Canada's most exciting copper stories. KEY TAKEAWAYS Despite its achievements, Foran Mining is perceived as undervalued in the market. The disconnect between perceived and actual risk is a factor, suggesting that the company's fundamentals do not align with its current valuation. Saskatchewan is recognised as one of the best mining jurisdictions globally, with a supportive government and low after-tax cash costs Beyond McIlvenny Bay, Foran Mining has significant exploration potential with discoveries like the Tesla and Bridge zones. These areas could lead to increased production capacity With the company positioned at a critical juncture before production, there is a strong argument for investment. BEST MOMENTS "We are the only single asset company building an actual greenfield copper mine in the world today, which when you actually say that out loud is quite amazing." "The actual risk versus the perceived risk is very different... the perceived risk that's still involved is much higher than the actual risk." "The valuation where it's at is the cheapest it's ever been in its history... now is the best time that you could ever have to buy the stock." "Saskatchewan is one of the best jurisdictions in the world... very pragmatic and practical government. I'd say that's the best thing." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://foranmining.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Foran-Mining-Corporation/100086125762836/ https://x.com/foranmining https://www.linkedin.com/company/foran-mining/posts/?feedView=all @foranmining 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 seasoned CEO and visionary leader at the helm of multiple high-impact ventures, including Pilar Gold, Pure Tungsten, Tucano Gold, and Gold Road. With decades of experience navigating the complex world of mining finance, exploration, and operational leadership, Jeremy has earned a reputation for revitalizing assets, unlocking value, and delivering sustainable growth in some of the world's most resource-rich and challenging regions. From South America to Asia and beyond, he's not just leading companies; he's reshaping the narrative around modern mining, strategic metals, and responsible resource development. Jeremy talks about how he built a multi-company gold portfolio and made a strategic leap into tungsten, why he chose to keep all the companies separate rather than under one umbrella, the geopolitical and regulatory risks involved in operating across countries like Brazil and beyond, and how investor sentiment is evolving around gold and strategic minerals in today's volatile economy. KEY TAKEAWAYS The decision to keep multiple mining ventures separate rather than consolidating them under one umbrella was driven by the need for independent financing Brazil is viewed as a favourable mining jurisdiction due to its supportive environment for second chances, while regions like Australia and Africa are considered too competitive or risky Investor attitudes towards gold and tungsten are heavily influenced by market prices. A rising gold price can lead to increased investor interest There is a strong belief that exploration is often a waste of resources, with a preference for acquiring assets that are already producing or have a clear path to production BEST MOMENTS "We basically specialise in buying big secondhand gold mines and now tungsten mine... it hasn't been easy, but lots of challenges." "If you have run into problems when you're public, they will just wipe you out." "We only buy existing capacity, we don't build... it's a different game altogether." "Everything is driven by the price... when the gold price sells off 100 bucks in an afternoon, I know my phone won't ring." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-gray-783b9085/ https://www.pilargold.com/ https://www.puretungsten.ca/ https://www.tucanogold.com/ https://goldroad.com.au/ 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 Greg Lang, President and CEO of NOVAGOLD, who are a well-financed precious metals company focused on the development of its 60% owned, federally permitted Donlin Gold project in Alaska. Greg brings a wealth of experience, having held senior leadership roles at some of the world's largest mining companies, including Barrick Gold. Today, we explore his journey to the helm of NOVAGOLD and delve into what makes the company's vision distinct in today's mining landscape. We'll discuss pivotal moments like Barrick's exit from Donlin, the strategic role of Paulson Advisers LLC, and how NOVAGOLD is navigating the project's future—from ESG commitments and permitting milestones to community partnerships and long-term economic development in Alaska. KEY TAKEAWAYS NOVAGOLD is primarily focused on the development of the Donlin Gold project in Alaska, which is recognised as one of the largest and highest-grade undeveloped gold deposits globally The company has established strong partnerships with local Native corporations, such as Callister Corporation and the Casco Wind Corporation NOVAGOLD has made significant strides in the permitting process, having completed federal permitting and received a record of decision from the Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Land Management NOVAGOLD emphasises sustainability and community engagement as foundational elements of its operations, actively involving local communities BEST MOMENTS "I was always fascinated by the scale of the asset. You know, I've been around a lot of gold mines that ultimately got to 40 million ounces, but none of them ever started that big." "Barrick's decision to divest Donlin marked a major turning point... they had other competing priorities, and now with Paulson and NOVAGOLD, we are totally aligned on taking this project forward." "Donlin is located in a very impoverished part of the state of Alaska... there's no economic engine on the horizon that will create the kind of employment that Donlin will." "Sustainability is increasing, pivotal in the mining sector" 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://novagold.com/ https://x.com/novagold https://www.facebook.com/NovaGold https://www.linkedin.com/company/novagold/ 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 the episode, we chat with Dr Pradeep Kumar Jain, who was the Chief Mineral Economist for the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, and has recently retired. With over 42 years of experience in mineral economics, geology, and mining legislation, he has been deeply involved in shaping India's mineral policy, pricing mechanisms, and strategic resource planning. He talks about critical factors for successful mine planning, adoption of new technology, India as a mining jurisdiction, and how they are developing their mining industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Since 2015, India's mineral concession grants have shifted from a first-come, first-served basis to an auction model, enhancing transparency, increasing state revenue, and expediting the process of granting mining rights. India is rich in a variety of minerals, including major, minor, critical, and strategic minerals. Key states like Goa, Jharkhand, and Odisha are known for specific minerals, contributing to a robust mining landscape. The integration of advanced technologies such as GIS, remote sensing, and drone surveys is transforming mining operations in India, improving decision-making, efficiency, and regulatory transparency. The establishment of the District Mineral Foundation aims to ensure that mining activities contribute positively to local communities and the environment, promoting sustainable and inclusive development. BEST MOMENTS "After 2015, the grant of the concession in an auction mode... it is becoming a transparent procedure for grant of the mineral concession." "We have about 25 minerals available... all type of the mineral right from the bulk mineral to precious mineral." "This auction model has made drastic changes... it is making a healthy competition but little bit there is some drawback also." "India is a very good platform for international trade, as well as inviting the international experts to come and venture into the mining sector in India." 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 GUEST SOCIALS pkjain3661@gmail.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-p-k-jain/ 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 Noora Ahola, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of Mawson Finland, a gold development company working in the mining friendly jurisdiction of Finland, who are developing and advancing the Rajapalot Project in the northern region of the country. Noora has a background in studying forestry, landscape management, and mining and has developed strong experience within the Finnish environmental administration, applying environmental and other land-use legislation for nature protection. She has also been part of the Lapland Chamber of Commerce and Finnish Mining Association boards. In today's episode, we explore Noora's leadership journey, her insights on operating in Finland's highly regulated ESG environment, community engagement strategies, and what's next for Rajapalot - including drilling updates, feasibility work, and full-scale permitting. KEY TAKEAWAYS Mawson Finland emphasises the importance of community involvement and transparency in its operations. The company actively engages with local stakeholders, ensuring that their concerns and suggestions are heard and addressed. Mawson Finland is advancing its Rajapalot project, with successful drilling seasons leading to new discoveries and resource growth. The company is currently analysing results to determine the next steps Northern Finland is recognised as a safe and mining-friendly jurisdiction, with established infrastructure, a skilled workforce BEST MOMENTS "I think our shareholders share the same vision with me, that we're going to build up a responsible mine, which actually benefits the locals in the area greatly in the future." "It's not a single experience or anything. It's just the whole big picture." "We have done very well... there is always someone who is against or opposed, but it's clearly the minority." 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 GUEST SOCIALS MFL website: https://mawsonfinland.com/ MFL Socials: X - https://x.com/MawsonFinland Linkedin - https://ca.linkedin.com/company/mawson-finland-limited Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Mawson-Finland-Ltd/61560946421734/ 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 Grant Sboros, CEO of Euro Sun Mining, a publicly listed development-stage mining company focused on unlocking value through the responsible development of the Rovina Valley Project, one of Europe's largest gold-copper projects. Grant is a chartered accountant by background has extensive mining experience in Africa in both operations and finance. Working for the likes of Deloitte and Glencore, he has been at the helm of Euro Sun since 2022 and talks to us about the company, the challenges facing companies going from exploration to development, mining in the EU, and their outlook and financing in the industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Rovina Valley project is one of Europe's largest gold-copper deposits, with a significant resource of 10.4 million ounces of gold equivalent. Euro Sun Mining has secured a $200 million financing deal with Trafigura, which is crucial for the project's construction phase. This financing is structured to minimise shareholder dilution The new Romanian government appears to be pro-mining, which could facilitate the permitting process for the Rovina Valley project. Over the next 6 to 12 months, Euro Sun Mining aims to finalise financing agreements, push for legislative progress, and submit the environmental impact assessment. BEST MOMENTS "It is the second largest deposit of gold in Europe. It's a world-class asset, and we need to get it into production." "The money that we've raised is critical for the business needs, and the majority of the funds are earmarked to get into construction." "Once you've got the strategic status, it will somewhat undo the arduous processes of complicated permitting." "The CRMA provides that framework for us to make sure that we can get there, and there are time limits imposed to ensure things get done." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://www.eurosunmining.com/ https://www.facebook.com/EuroSunMining/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/euro-sun-mining/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLxIKFlOULs https://x.com/EuroSunMining 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 Alex Passmore, CEO of New Murchison Gold, who are an ASX listed mineral exploration and development company that holds a substantial package of tenements in the prolific Murchison goldfield near Meekatharra in Western Australia. Alex is a geologist by background but spent much of his career on the finance side of the industry. He is an experienced corporate executive and has a number of company directorships under him, and in this episode, he gives us an overview of Murchison Gold, an update on the operation, and views on finance in the industry and in the junior space and more. KEY TAKEAWAYS New Murchison Gold is a gold mining company located in the Murchison district of Western Australia, focusing on gold exploration and development. The company has a significant package of tenements and has recently shifted its focus solely to gold assets. The company has successfully commenced mining operations at the Crown Prince site, achieving its first blast on June 30 and completing four blasts by mid-July. New Murchison Gold has established a beneficial relationship with West Gold Resources, which allows them to sell their ore to West Gold's Bluebird mill. There is significant upside potential in the Crown Prince ore body, with expectations of underground extensions that could enhance production. BEST MOMENTS "We've managed to unlock significant value by discovering the Crown Prince ore body, which underpinned a big uplift in resources and the publication of an ore reserve earlier this year." "We are selling our ore and get paid 83% of the value of the gold that's in that ore to West Gold Resources, which has a plant 36 kilometres away." "We are confident in the ore body and the grades as we've put out publicly in the production profile." "Crown Prince will be producing around 60,000 ounces annually, and if we can bring on the other two, we start to head towards that magic 100,000-ounce production per annum rate." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://www.newmurchgold.com.au/https://www.newmurchgold.com.au/news-media/videos-podcasts/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-passmore-23025549/https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-murchison-gold/X: @NMG_GoldASX 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 a returning guest, who appeared in October 2024 (episode 471). John Lee, CEO and Executive Chairman of Silver Elephant, but also the CEO of CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp who are a listed critical mineral exploration company who acquired Campbell-Crotser Fluorspar project in Kentucky. John has an Economics and Engineering degree, a CFA charterholder, and accredited investor who specializes in mining M&A, raising over $150 million through the TSX and TSX Venture Exchange for junior companies since 2009. He talks about the history of CleanTech, more about Fluorspar, including supply and demand, more about Kentucky as a mining jurisdiction, and his take on the precious metals at the moment. KEY TAKEAWAYS Fluorspar is an essential mineral used in various industries, including nuclear power production, solar energy, EV batteries, and pharmaceuticals. The global production of fluorspar is heavily reliant on China, which produces 66 million tons annually, while the U.S. has no domestic production. The recent acquisition of the Campbell Prosser project in Kentucky positions Cleantech Vanadium Mining Corp to capitalise on the growing demand for fluorspar. Fluorspar prices have seen significant increases, with projections suggesting they could double or even quadruple by 2030 due to rising demand in critical applications and government initiatives aimed at self-sufficiency in mineral production. BEST MOMENTS "China produces today 66 million tons of fluorospar per year, and global production is 10 million tons. This creates a critical supply issue." "The project is in an excellent location with over 30 neighboring fluorospar projects... and has excellent infrastructure." "I think it's going to be within this current administration, you're going to see potentially doubling of the fluorospar price." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://ca.linkedin.com/company/cleantechctv https://cleantechctv.com/ 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 have a returning guest who last appeared on the show back in July 2023 (Ep 360). Scott Williamson, MD of Blackstone Minerals, a listed mining company who are developing a high-grade undeveloped copper-gold porphyry projects in the world and is uniquely positioned to capitalise on the untapped potential of the Mankayan Copper-Gold Project in the Philippines. Scott is a mining engineer by background, working in operations and corporate roles during his career and has exposure to corporate finance and capital markets, investor relations, and project management during his career. He has been at the helm of Blackstone for nearly 8 years now and gives us an update since he was last on, discusses the Mankayan project, talks about gold and copper porphyry, and what the Philippines is like as a mining jurisdiction, and more. KEY TAKEAWAYS The current copper market is experiencing tight supply due to increasing demand driven by electrification and the transition to electric vehicles. This has resulted in high copper prices Blackstone Minerals plans to conduct extensive exploration, aiming to drill around 50,000 meters over the next 12 to 18 months. This includes systematic exploration techniques to identify new ore bodies Strong community relations have been established, with previous owners successfully engaging local stakeholders. Blackstone has inherited a solid foundation, including a 25-year mining license and agreements with indigenous communities The project offers multiple development pathways, including the potential for a smaller-scale operation focusing on high-grade ore, which could generate cash flow to support larger-scale mining in the future BEST MOMENTS "Copper is probably the tightest copper concentrate market the world has ever seen... Unfortunately, the supply is quite limited, and it takes a long time to bring copper mines online." "This particular ore body has already got 10 million ounces of gold and another 10 million ounces of gold equivalent in copper... It's already a world-class scale." "We want to drill around 50,000 meters... We want to do a lot of drilling, but we also want to do that systematic exploration." "The good thing is that we're not just inheriting a world-class ore body, we're inheriting all of that great work that the previous owners have done." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://blackstoneminerals.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/blackstone-minerals/ https://x.com/Blackstone_BSX 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 Biggs, an experienced company adviser and part-time academic, focused on the mining industry. He is a director of Grainge Advisory Limited, which provides advisory and consultancy services to companies, investors, and other organisations, predominantly in the mining sector. We met recently at the UK mining conference in Cornwall, and Tim, who is a regular listener to the podcast, asked if he could come on to the show to discuss his recently released book…"Mining - Why It's Essential for a Sustainable Future". The book is available at bookstores, online through Waterstones, Amazon etc, using the search “Timothy Biggs” or “Mining”, and direct from the publisher using this link: https://www.politybooks.com/bookdetail?book_slug=9781509567492 KEY TAKEAWAYS Mining is essential for modern life, as nearly everything we use contains metals and minerals derived from mining. There is a significant lack of understanding about mining among the general public, particularly among younger generations and students. The mining industry has historically been poor at promoting its importance. The focus should shift from showcasing machinery to highlighting the essential role mining plays in everyday life and sustainability efforts. To ensure the future of the mining industry, it is crucial to attract young talent. This can be achieved by improving the industry's image, providing scholarships, and engaging educators to promote mining BEST MOMENTS "Everything uses the products of mining, metals and minerals. The only things that don't have metals and minerals in them are things that are grown, like our food." "If you don't appreciate how important mining is, then you clearly need to understand what we use all of the products of mining for." "The industry has not really felt that it's necessary to do much about its image... No image turns into poor image when something goes wrong." "As we move towards a more sustainable world, you're going to need more mining, not less." 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 Heut, Executive Chair and CEO of Americas Gold & Silver, who are a growing precious metals mining company with multiple assets in North America, including the Galena Complex in Idaho, US, and their Cosala operation in Mexico. With a mine engineering background, Paul has a strong command of capital markets and has served at all levels of engineering and mine operations so well versed to build and develop a mining company. As the CEO, he is leading the company's strategic vision to establish it as a premier North American-focused silver producer. On the podcast, he speaks about the business, his experience turning around operations, the importance of mentorship, how to build a culture of safety and efficiency, and ways to acknowledge and reward employees. KEY TAKEAWAYS The transition from miner to CEO was significantly influenced by mentorship opportunities, including being sponsored for an engineering degree, which highlights the importance of investing in talent The current strategy for America's Gold and Silver is operational success and efficiency, with a goal to increase silver production at the Galena Mine Extensive knowledge in narrow vein mining and long hole methods is crucial for tackling technical challenges such as dilution control and stope stability America's Gold and Silver is undergoing a significant turnaround, focusing on strengthening its operations and financial position after previous struggles BEST MOMENTS "I started off at an entry-level position... it was about proving myself and what could I do over the next several years." "One of the issues we're going to have in our industry in the future is the talent pool" "We have a very strong proven track record... we will get to 5 million ounces." "If you have any type of leniency or you give up too easy, you'll struggle in mining because this is an industry that's a tough business." 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://americas-gold.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/americas-silver/ https://x.com/americas_silver https://www.instagram.com/americasgoldandsilver 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 Blake Mclaughlin, Vice President of Exploration at Axcap Ventures, a North American investment firm with a focus on mining, holding some of the most prospective gold belts in the United States and Canada, combining historical drilling success with modern exploration upside. Blake has spent over a decade in the mining and metals industry and is highly experienced in taking mining companies from development into production. From grassroots junior exploration to advanced exploration, resource development, and project construction. He's worked for a number of companies in the pre-resource to maiden resource stage. Blake is on the podcast to give us an overview and history of Axcap, to talk about where to find exploration success, M&A in the junior space, and much more around the junior market. KEY TAKEAWAYS The company emphasises acquiring projects with substantial historical data and exploration spend, allowing them to leverage existing information The current macroeconomic environment, characterised by geopolitical stability and monetary policies, is seen as favourable for gold prices Axcap is actively conducting a 5,000-meter drill program at the Converse project, with initial results indicating promising intersections that could support a path toward a 10 million ounce resource Axcap Ventures aims to advance and de-risk its projects rather than build large-scale mines, positioning itself for potential acquisition by larger producers BEST MOMENTS The structural setup for gold to perform well for the foreseeable future is pretty strong, in my opinion." "We're in the middle of a 5,000 meter drill program right now at Converse in Nevada. The goal of this program is to show that there's a path towards a 10 million ounce resource." "I think the exploration upside is a big part of that. We're underpinned by resources, and each of them has a really paradigm-changing exploration attribute that we will test." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Axcap Ventures LinkedIn Page Blake McLaughlin LinkedIn Page Contact: info@axcapventures.ca 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 have a returning guest who appeared twice back in 2022 (episodes 217 and 267). Marc Bishop Lafleche, CEO of Ecora Resources, who are a leading royalty company focused on supporting the supply of commodities essential to creating a sustainable future. Listed on the London Stock Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange, they have a proven track record of delivering value-accretive growth. Marc has a banking and international finance background and has been with the company for the past 11 years, moving into the CEO role 3 years ago. Marc gives us an update on the company since we last spoke, and why they have changed focus, their recent acquisition, update on the current royalty market, and his thoughts on financing within the mining industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ecora Resources has shifted from relying heavily on a single coal royalty stream (Kestrel) to diversifying its portfolio with future-facing minerals The company emphasises a strategy of quality over quantity in its royalty acquisitions, targeting low-cost assets that are expected to generate strong cash flows and withstand commodity price cycles. With a sector-leading copper pipeline, Ecora is well-positioned to benefit from the increasing demand for copper driven by urbanisation, renewable energy, and electric vehicles Royalty companies have become a key source of financing in the mining sector, providing flexible and less risky funding options compared to traditional debt and equity BEST MOMENTS "We've been quite deliberate and methodical... to build this business with the strategy of quality over quantity." "I think 2025 will be a pretty important year for this company... starting to see free cash flow growth from a lot of the assets we've put into the business." "The royalty sector has emerged as a key source of financing... because of its evergreen nature." "The demand for electricity and the need for these critical minerals to me is really, really clear." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://www.ecora-resources.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecora-resources-plc https://x.com/EcoraResources 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 Honourable Shane Jones, member of the NZ government and the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Resources, Associate Minister of Finance, and Associate Minister for Energy. Shane entered Parliament in 2005 and joined New Zealand First as an MP in 2017. As a proud born and bred Northlander, Shane has always asked the tough questions, identified policy solutions, and accelerated implementation in his political life …and has been a very vocal supporter of the mining industry, including the possibility of seabed mining. He very much sees New Zealand's own natural resources as a pathway to economic prosperity, creating regional wealth and jobs. On the podcast, we discuss what the mining industry means to NZ, the policies the government have, and are looking to implement to make the industry more attractive and why companies should invest into NZ's mining industry and much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS The New Zealand government, under the leadership of Shane Jones, is committed to revitalising the mining industry, reversing previous bans on oil and gas New Zealand has developed a Critical Minerals List and a mineral strategy aimed at restoring pride in the natural resources sector The introduction of Fast Track legislation aims to streamline the environmental permitting process for mining projects, allowing for quicker allocation of permits A $200 million co-investment fund has been established to encourage both local and international investment in the mining sector, addressing concerns about potential future government changes BEST MOMENTS "I believe a lot of the climate change hysteria is actually going to wreck Western economies unless we restore some balance to it." "We've got a kind of figurative Sahara desert of iron sands resource, largely in the ocean." "Any economy that races ahead, demonises, cancels its fossil fuels industry without an affordable strategy... is dicing with economic calamity." "No one enjoys a perfect history. So what we've got to do is ensure that mining as it goes forward is strongly defended." VALUABLE RESOURCES A Minerals Strategy for New Zealand - Read more: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/building-and-energy/energy-and-natural-resources/minerals-and-petroleum/strategies/a-minerals-strategy-to-2040 New Zealand's Critical Minerals List - Read more: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/building-and-energy/energy-and-natural-resources/minerals-and-petroleum/critical-minerals-list/critical-minerals-list-2025 Free access to geoscience data: https://www.nzpam.govt.nz/maps-geoscience/geodata-catalogue https://www.nzpam.govt.nz/maps-geoscience/core-store https://www.nzpam.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/the-mineral-potential-of-new-zealand-part-1-overview-of-new-zealands-mineral-deposits-and-their-resources.pdf Improving regulatory settings - Read more: https://www.nzpam.govt.nz/nz-industry/rules-regulations/fast-track-approvals-process Connecting with New Zealand's mining sector - Read more: https://mineralscouncil.co.nz/ -Invest NZ - Read more: https://www.nzte.govt.nz/page/invest-or-raise-capital-with-nzte 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com CONTACT METHOD rob@mining-international.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/
In this episode, we have a returning guest who appeared back in November 2023 (Episode 392). Ed Bowie, CEO and Director at Beowulf Mining, a listed junior miner with a diversified portfolio of development-stage projects in iron ore, graphite, gold, and base metal projects in Sweden, Finland, and Kosovo. With an exploration geology background, Ed has over 20 years of experience in the natural resources sector, having worked in corporate, advisory, and fund management roles and across a broad range of commodities and jurisdictions. Ed is going to give us an update on the company and its projects, details around community engagement, the support they receive from the EU, and the commodity price outlook. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Kallak project is currently undergoing a pre-feasibility study, with recent metallurgical tests confirming the ability to produce a high-grade, low-impurity iron ore concentrate. A slurry pipeline solution has been proposed to minimize community impact and logistical challenges. Community engagement is central to Beowulf's development plans. The company prioritizes minimizing impacts on local stakeholders, particularly reindeer herders, and aims to secure a social license to operate through transparent communication and collaboration. The pre-feasibility study for the Graphintech project has shown promising results, with plans to produce 25,000 tons of anode material annually. The project has a projected NPV of €924 million for phase one and over €2 billion for a potential phase two expansion. Despite market fluctuations, the demand for high-quality iron ore and battery minerals is expected to rise, particularly as the steel industry shifts towards lower carbon technologies. BEST MOMENTS "We can produce an extremely high grade, low impurity concentrate suitable for decarbonizing the steel industry. So critical for the green transition in that respect." "The solution that we've come up with is a slurry pipeline... it would be unseen, unheard, wouldn't impact local communities, no safety risks on the road." "We intend to be a completely independent part of the supply chain, no dependence on China whatsoever." "The awareness of the importance of raw materials and raw materials supply chains is... now everybody is aware of it." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS www.beowulfmining.com www.jokkmokkiron.se https://www.grafintec.fi/en/etusivu-en/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beowulf-mining-plc-bem-/ X: https://x.com/BeowulfMining 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 Neil Herbert, Chairman of Pulsar Helium, a leading primary helium exploration and development company listed in Canada and the United Kingdom, with its flagship Topaz Project in Minnesota, USA, which has one of the world's highest concentrations of helium. Neil brings over 30 years leading and advising companies from start up, through IPOs, development and over US$3bn of M&A. KEY TAKEAWAYS Pulsar Helium is focused on a primary helium project in Minnesota, which boasts some of the highest concentrations of helium globally, with a significant advantage of having no hydrocarbon association. Helium is increasingly vital for various technological applications, particularly in microprocessor production and healthcare (e.g., MRI scanners). The U.S. federal government is actively supporting projects like Pulsar Helium, aiming to ensure local supply chains for critical materials. The project requires relatively modest capital expenditure (between $10 million to $50 million) due to its small footprint and the absence of toxic gases. Financing options include existing bank facilities and potential state and federal support. If current testing goes well, Pulsar Helium aims to reach a financial investment decision (FID) early next year, with potential production starting as early as 2026, depending on the success of ongoing operations and permitting processes. BEST MOMENTS "The value of helium is around 100 times that of natural gas. It's a very high value product, and the potential returns on these projects could be phenomenal." "We started looking at projects in Africa, but when this opportunity came up in the States, it was just a no brainer. It was a project that was so good, you couldn't miss it." "The biggest consumer in the world of helium is actually the United States. They have a big space program and a big healthcare industry, making local supply crucial." "We're looking at a range of CapEx around 10 to 50 million. Given the relative modest amounts of money involved, I don't expect enormous problems with that." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS X > https://x.com/pulsarhelium LinkedIn > https://www.linkedin.com/company/pulsar-helium-inc YouTube > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHGkYuAePJw $PLSR Insights > https://pulsarhelium.com/Community/PLSR-Insights/default.aspx https://www.pulsarhelium.com/overview/default.aspx connect@pulsarhelium.com 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 Townsend, Director of Magma Silver, who are a Canadian precious metals exploration company focused on developing the high-sulfidation Ninobamba and Jeromina silver and gold project in Peru. Michael has extensive experience in corporate finance spanning over 30 years in Capital Markets and is one of the founding partners of Altus Capital Partners, a boutique investment bank based in Vancouver, Canada. He gives us an overview of Magma Silver, how to source and what makes a good deal, the current climate, and what the future holds for junior exploration. KEY TAKEAWAYS Magma Silver, initially focused on cobalt exploration, has pivoted to developing the Ninobamba and Jeromina silver and gold projects in Peru, with plans to drill and confirm existing mineralization while establishing community agreements. A strong reputation for integrity and follow-through in the industry has led to a high volume of deal flow, allowing for selective investment in promising projects. This reputation is crucial for attracting opportunities and maintaining relationships. Current macroeconomic conditions favour commodities like silver and gold, with silver recently breaking out against gold. The exploration sector is expected to see a resurgence as public interest and investment return to the industry. The company aims to increase its market valuation by proving the substantial mineral resources in the ground, with plans for further drilling and potential acquisition of additional projects, particularly in favourable jurisdictions like Mexico. BEST MOMENTS "We have a community agreement on the Jeromina. We need to get on the ground and make a community agreement with the Ninobamba community. And that's probably the most important piece." "I think a revaluation is what happens. You say, well, that company's got to be worth a lot more than $6.5 million Canadian." "I do believe that all the best projects or most of the best projects in the world are already in a company, already in another junior explorer or major for that matter." "Silver has been to $50 twice... but when it moves, it really moves." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Contact: Michael Townsend mdt@altuscapital.ca https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-townsend-062253158/ Website: www.magmasilver.com https://www.instagram.com/magmasilver/ https://x.com/MagmaSilverCorp https://www.linkedin.com/company/magma-silver/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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 Ali Haji, CEO of American Tungsten Ltd, a listed Canadian exploration company focused on advancing high-grade magnetite mineral properties with its flagship asset, the IMA Mine Project in Idaho. Ali has over 20 years in metals and mining, investment management, and publicly-listed capital markets experience, where he has served a variety of senior leadership roles within the mining industry. Ali discusses the background to American Tungsten, why it's important in today’s industrial and technological landscape, US funding and regulatory controls, and what the company is looking to achieve in the long term KEY TAKEAWAYS The company is primarily focused on the IMA Mine Project in Idaho, which is a past producer of tungsten and aims to bring production back online within 18 months. The mine has a significant historical resource and is located in a strong mining jurisdiction. Tungsten is a critical metal used in various military and industrial applications, including armour, ammunition, aerospace components, and microchips. Its high melting point and strength make it essential in many technologies, highlighting the need for domestic production. The current U.S. administration prioritises critical minerals, including tungsten, which has led to potential benefits for American Tungsten, such as fast-tracked permitting and access to grants and low-interest loans to support production efforts. The leadership team includes individuals with extensive experience in the mining sector and government funding, which positions American Tungsten favourably to navigate regulatory processes and secure necessary funding for development. Key upcoming events for American Tungsten include the release of a 43-101 resource statement, exploration drilling, and a bulk sample to assess metallurgy. These developments are expected to enhance the company's resource profile and expedite the path to production. BEST MOMENTS "Tungsten is the second hardest element on the periodic table, used to strengthen alloys and has a very high melting point at 2500 degrees centigrade." "We believe that at IMA, we can be the fastest to bring tungsten production back online in North America." "The goal is to bring back a lot of the production that was mothballed in 2015 when the Chinese flooded the market with cheap tungsten." "Our path to production is quicker than anybody else in the space. Our resource is well defined with the expectation for it to grow." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://americantungstencorp.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/americantungstencorp/ https://www.youtube.com/@americantungstencorp https://www.facebook.com/americantungstencorp/ https://www.instagram.com/americantungstencorp https://x.com/amtungsten ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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 have a returning guest who appeared back in Episodes 298 and 451, Alex Walker, CEO of East Star Resources, are focused on the discovery and development of VMS, porphyry and sediment hosted copper deposits in Kazakhstan.A former captain in the Australian Army Reserves, Alex has more than 15 years of investment banking, mining finance, and management experience before joining East Star in 2021. He gives us an update since we last spoke in July 2024, updates on their drilling campaigns, ESG, and how Kazakhstan is developing as a mining jurisdiction. KEY TAKEAWAYS Kazakhstan is emerging as a favourable mining jurisdiction, attracting significant investment from major companies like Fortescue, Barrick, and Ivanhoe. The country has made strides in improving its regulatory framework, including digitising applications and maintaining a stable royalty rate. The company is utilising modern exploration techniques, including AI data processing and advanced geochemical sampling, to enhance target identification and reduce fieldwork time. These technologies are helping to refine their understanding of potential deposits. East Star is committed to integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operations. The company emphasises community engagement, social responsibility, and minimizing environmental impact, particularly by leveraging existing infrastructure in the region. In the short to medium term, East Star Resources plans to initiate drilling at multiple targets, including Rulikha and Talovskoye, while continuing to refine its resource model for Verkhuba. The company aims to grow its resource base and advance towards feasibility studies within the year. BEST MOMENTS "Kazakhstan is a fantastic place. The people are very welcoming, very friendly. It's quite a melting pot... and certainly our friendship group here is quite diverse as well." "We think that Kazakhstan ticks that box massively... It's probably one of the few jurisdictions globally that you could say is moving in the right direction." "Copper is entering a multi-generational bull market... The new oil is copper because we need that to decentralise the grids." "We would like to start pushing that through scoping studies and into feasibility work. So I hope that we can do all of that this year." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://www.eaststarplc.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/east-star-resources/ https://x.com/EastStar_PLC ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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 have a returning guest who appeared in October 2024 (Episode 479). Robert Eckford, CEO of Rua Gold, a junior gold mining exploration company exploring two historic high-grade gold districts across New Zealand. Robert is a Chartered Accountant and a Master in Mineral Economics, where he began his career as a mining auditor and consultant at EY, before moving on and becoming a founding member of two successful mining ventures. He’s been at the helm as CEO of RUA Gold for nearly 18 months and gives us an update on the company, update on New Zealand as a mining jurisdiction, how they work with the local communities, what factors influence the company's strategic decisions, and the use of AI in exploration. KEY TAKEAWAYS New Zealand's Mining Landscape: The new political party in New Zealand has implemented a fast-track permitting process, allowing mines to be permitted in just six months, significantly reducing the bureaucratic hurdles that previously existed. Rua Gold has successfully acquired 95% of the Reefton gold district, which is rich in historic high-grade gold deposits. Recent drilling results have shown promising high-grade intercepts, indicating strong potential for future mining operations. Community Engagement: Rua Gold actively engages with local Maori groups and communities, fostering a collaborative relationship. The company provides updates and seeks feedback, emphasising a partnership approach rather than a confrontational one. Use of AI in Exploration: The company utilises AI technology, specifically a tool called Verify AI, to analyze large datasets and identify high-potential drilling targets. This approach enhances efficiency in exploration by focusing resources on the most promising areas. The junior mining sector faces significant challenges in securing funding, despite high gold prices. The need for continuous capital raises and the difficulty in attracting investment highlight the complexities of operating in this space. BEST MOMENTS "The way that we're going to help mining in New Zealand is actually just cut the red tape and get permitting done quicker." "We have 95% of the tenements there, and now we're uncovering the rest of that district." "Antimony is really interesting in the sense that it is the most scarce critical mineral of critical minerals." "I think the biggest factor for me is can you make this into a business?" 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS www.ruagold.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/rua-gold/ Contact: reckford@ruagold.com ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Justin Walls, a principal consultant specializing in tailings and mine closures for SRK Consulting in Australia, who are a global firm that provides technical services for mining and exploration projects. Justin discusses looking at proactive tailings closure and why balancing compliance, reducing liabilities, and adding value through strategic planning is important, and why companies should take note. KEY TAKEAWAYS Mining companies should start thinking about tailings storage facility (TSF) closure designs early in the mining lifecycle, ideally during the operational phase, to reduce future liabilities and ensure financial efficiency. Meeting standards such as the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) is crucial for mining companies. Compliance should be viewed as a baseline, with companies encouraged to exceed these requirements to mitigate risks and enhance their reputation. Early collaboration with stakeholders, including local communities and regulators, is essential for successful closure planning. Engaging these groups helps align expectations and can lead to better outcomes for both the mining company and the community. Successful TSF closure projects often involve proactive planning and adjustments during operations. Conversely, failures typically stem from neglecting community needs and environmental considerations, leading to long-term liabilities. BEST MOMENTS "I see myself as a bit of a recovering tailings engineer at this point in time." "It's never too early... it would be a lot easier and reduce your liability quite a lot if you did it earlier on." "If mining companies don't do it properly, you're gonna end up as long-term land management companies." "Closure planning... is an opportunity. It's a proactive way to reduce future liabilities." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Contacts: Website: https://www.srk.com SRK communications email address: communications@srk.com.au Justin: juwalls@srk.com.au Social media links: SRK: linkedin.com/company/srk-consulting Justin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-walls-3360a382/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we have a returning guest who appeared in Jan 2025 (Episode 497), Juan Carlos, President and CEO of Canstar Resources, a TSX-Venture listed junior miner focused on mineral exploration in Newfoundland, Canada. Juan has 15 years of experience in executive management, capital markets, finance, and commercial and strategic development. Juan gives us an update on proceedings since we last spoke, their new JV agreement, VMS deposits, and why they are attractive propositions, their recently launched deep geophysics survey update, and discusses their unique board and what they bring to the company and much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS CanStar Resources has entered a significant joint venture with VMS Mining Corporation, which involves a phased investment totalling $11.5 million for a 60% ownership stake in CanStar's VMS assets. This structure is designed to be non-dilutive for existing shareholders. The Buckins District in Newfoundland is historically significant for its high-grade VMS deposits. CanStar's projects, Buckins and Mary March, are located in this area, which has seen limited exploration using modern geophysical techniques, suggesting substantial untapped potential. CanStar is also exploring its Golden Bay project, which has significant antimony potential. Antimony is critical for military and high-tech applications, and its rising demand presents a strategic opportunity for the company. CanStar plans to advance its exploration programs at both the Buckins and Mary March projects, with ongoing geophysical surveys and drilling activities. The company aims to execute its strategy efficiently in 2025, leveraging its partnerships and expertise to drive discoveries. BEST MOMENTS "CanStar Resources is a TSX-V listed junior that's focused on transforming neglected mineral systems into strategic assets for the next supercycle." "This joint venture... is non-dilutive and it's serious capital in the ground on an accelerated basis, really looking for a tier one discovery." "VMS deposits are very interesting in part because they're polymetallic... they give you economic flexibility and exposure to not only critical metals, but also precious metals." "The best place to look for a new deposit is in the shadow of the headframe." "Antimony is a mineral that is absolutely critical for military and high technology applications." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS LinkedIn: ○ Canstar: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/canstar-resources ○ JCG: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcgironjr/ ○ Will Upshur: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willupshur/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/Canstar_Rox Contacts: JCG: jc@canstarresources.com Will: will@canstarresources.com https://www.canstarresources.com/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Oscar Louzada and Rayiez Bhoelan of Sranan Gold, who are a Canadian exploration company advancing the Tapanahony Project in Suriname's Guiana Shield, targeting multimillion-ounce gold deposits. They give us an overview of the company and their Tapanahony Gold Project, Suirname as a mining jurisdiction, their collaboration with Dr. Dennis LaPoint, and how they are engaging with local communities. KEY TAKEAWAYS Sranan Gold is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing the Tapanahony project in Suriname, a region known for its rich artisanal gold mining and potential for significant mineral deposits. The team at Sranan Gold, including local geologist Reyes Bellini, emphasises the importance of understanding the unique geological and environmental conditions of Suriname, which enhances their exploration efforts. Sranan Gold is committed to engaging with local communities, particularly the Ugan Maroon Nation, by creating job opportunities, respecting local customs, and ensuring that any future mining benefits the local population. The Tapanahony Gold Project is located in a highly fertile area for gold mineralisation, with the potential to host multiple significant gold deposits, making it an attractive site for exploration. BEST MOMENTS "We decided to set up our own little shop... ended up in Suriname, a country where very little exploration had been done before, but a country with great artisanal gold mining." "The Tapanahony Gold Project... has the potential to host 5 to 10 kilometers long zones of gold mineralization." "Suriname is an overall mining-friendly country... we have the right geology for world-class gold deposits and many other metals." "We are always respecting their laws and their customs... if and whenever we discover a substantial mine, it'll also be to the benefit of the local community first." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://www.sranangold.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/sranan-gold/ https://x.com/SrananGold Corporate Presentation May 2025: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8l4z3mclbuuhjipt1bw3l/Sranan-Gold-corporate-presentation-May-2025.pdf?rlkey=98nxm24ehp62pqvktuuyhgypn&st=k0ctxyn7&dl=0 ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Richard Carleton, CEO of the Canadian Securities Exchange, who provides a modern and efficient alternative for companies looking to access the Canadian public capital markets With qualifications in law and history, Richard and the CSE team have positioned the exchange to take a leading role in the provision of public capital to entrepreneurial companies; since 2014, the CSE has set a series of records for new listings, capital raised by issuers, and trading turnover. Richard shares his thoughts on the fluctuations in commodity prices and why it's affecting our industry, speaks about the geopolitical tensions that we are experiencing today, the progress being made toward addressing abusive short selling, carbon and DEI reporting requirements, and encouraging public pension plans to allocate capital to Canadian small caps and much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS The CSE serves as a modern and efficient alternative for companies seeking access to Canadian public capital markets, particularly for early-stage companies in sectors like mining, technology, and life sciences. Fluctuations in commodity prices significantly affect funding for exploration and development companies. The ability to secure investment is closely tied to the perceived value of the underlying minerals, and there are concerns about potential manipulation of prices that could hinder investment in Canadian resources. There is a growing recognition among Canadian provincial and federal governments of the need to support mining infrastructure, including roads, rail, and refining capabilities, to enhance the country's position as a reliable supplier of critical minerals. The CSE is working with regulators to address abusive short selling practices in the junior mining sector. Changes to rules and the clearing and settlement system are expected to reduce the prevalence of short selling, improving the market experience for junior companies. There is momentum behind encouraging Canadian public pension plans to allocate capital to small-cap companies, particularly in the mining sector. This shift is seen as crucial for providing the necessary funding for exploration and development, which has historically relied on retail investors. BEST MOMENTS "What we don't have... is in the infrastructure required to move the ores to refining and smelting capability." "I think it's fair to say we've seen that impact across the board. It's my sense... that the world price is being manipulated." "Mining is a provincial responsibility... it's really up to the provinces to provide the permitting, the rules, the regulations around exploration and mining development." "There are still a significant number of brokers that do provide advisory services to the mining industry specifically." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://thecse.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/canadian-securities-exchange/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHAlYSqAf_2dGADm9yiqTiw https://x.com/CSE_News https://www.instagram.com/canadianexchange/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode we chat to Graham Grant, CEO of Seequent, world leaders in earth-modelling, analysis, data management and collaboration software. They help organisations to understand the underground, giving the confidence to make better decisions faster. Graham has a background in logistics and shipping and has been with Seequent for the past 13 years and is on the podcast today to talk about the company, technology, their recently launched open software platform Seequent Evo, talent and skills shortage in our industry and how they are adapting and what the mining industry can learn from other industries. KEY TAKEAWAYS Geoscience plays a crucial role in the mining industry by helping to identify valuable minerals underground. It involves complex processes that require accurate data collection and analysis to ensure economic extraction of resources. Sequent recently launched an open software platform called Sequent Evo, designed to address significant challenges in the mining industry, such as fragmented information systems and disconnected data. This cloud-native platform aims to enhance collaboration, drive automation, and facilitate faster decision-making. The mining industry is facing a significant skills gap due to a decline in new graduates entering geoscience programs and the retirement of experienced professionals. Initiatives like Visible Geology aim to engage younger audiences and promote interest in geology and mining careers. There are valuable lessons to be learned from other industries, such as oil and gas and civil infrastructure. For instance, the mining sector can benefit from adopting real-time downhole measurement techniques used in oil and gas to improve drilling efficiency and reduce costs. BEST MOMENTS "We are a software company that specialises in geosciences, and we're global leaders in that space... our HQ's in New Zealand, but we have around 800 staff in many countries, thousands of customers, and those customers span 150 countries around the world." "Mining companies are really cost sensitive... running operations cost effectively... we removed about 75% of all the repetitive tasks, which upped their employee productivity by about half." "We've got a massive skills gap coming in the next 10 to 20 years... if you talk to your average geologist, they didn't find their way into the industry because a careers advisor told them to." "We need innovative approaches, you need fresh thinking... " 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://www.seequent.com/ https://www.visiblegeology.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamgrantuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/seequent/ https://www.youtube.com/seequent https://x.com/Seequentglobal ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
In this episode, we chat with Wilson Monteiro, Global Business Line Manager for Gearless Mill Drives at ABB who are a leading provider of technologies and solutions for various industries, such as mining in motion, process and robotics. Wilson tells us about ABB, gearless technology, predictive maintenance, automation, digitalisation, and much more around the process and technology space. KEY TAKEAWAYS Wilson has a diverse background in electrical engineering, sales, and management, with extensive experience in automation and artificial intelligence. His career has spanned various roles at ABB and other companies, leading to his current position managing the gearless mill drive business globally. Uptime is critical in the mining industry, not only for profit but also for sustainability. Keeping machinery operational minimises CO2 emissions and maximises the efficiency of existing assets, which is increasingly important as the industry faces pressure to reduce emissions and improve productivity. Gearless mill drives (GMDs) are highlighted as a more energy-efficient solution compared to traditional technologies, offering up to 3.6% energy savings. This efficiency is significant when considering the large number of GMDs in operation globally, contributing to lower carbon footprints in mining operations. The shift towards integrated electrification, automation, and digitalisation is essential for modern mining operations. This integration leads to safer operations, fewer personnel on-site, and improved communication between systems, ultimately enhancing productivity and safety. Predictive maintenance, powered by AI, allows for proactive management of equipment by using real-time data to anticipate issues before they occur. This approach not only extends the life of machinery but also enhances operational efficiency and safety by reducing unexpected breakdowns. BEST MOMENTS "Uptime used to be all about profit. Today, it's about sustainability, too. Even a small hiccup can mean millions in lost production." "GMDs cut out mechanical losses because there is no gearbox or coupling. That alone gives you up to 3.6% energy savings." "It's not cost versus reliability. They go hand in hand. Reliable systems mean fewer unexpected shutdowns, which means fewer people exposed to risk." "Historically, mining has always been an industry slow to adopt change. There's a "Today, I can see some companies moving in a different pattern. Tech Quebrada Blanca is one of them; they have the best approach for operating a mine." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://new.abb.com/mining/grinding/gearless-mill-drives https://www.linkedin.com/company/abb/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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 Krishan Gopaul, Senior Research Analyst at the World Gold Council, who are the authority on Gold. They explore the unique gold market and industry research, producing analysis, commentary, and insights on the precious metal to improve the understanding, access, and trust in the yellow metal. Krishan has been with the World Council for over 14 years and is here today to give us an update on their latest Gold Demands Trend report for the first quarter of this year, some of the main drivers of gold at the moment, investor demand, and the activities of the central banks, and more. KEY TAKEAWAYS In the first quarter of 2025, total gold demand increased by 1% to 1,206 tonnes, marking the highest first quarter of gold demand since 2016. Investment demand, particularly from gold ETFs, was a significant driver of this increase. The main drivers for gold demand included macroeconomic factors such as inflation concerns and geopolitical uncertainties. Central banks continued to be a major source of demand, with ongoing purchases contributing to the overall support for gold prices. Retail investment in gold, particularly in bars and coins, saw a 3% year-on-year increase in the first quarter. This growth was driven by heightened uncertainty in the market, prompting both institutional and retail investors to seek gold as a safe haven asset. Central banks have been net buyers of gold since 2010, with significant purchases continuing into 2025. Emerging market central banks, such as those in Poland and China, were noted as key purchasers, maintaining a robust demand for gold. Jewellery demand faced pressure due to rising gold prices, with a 21% year-on-year decline in consumption. However, the value of gold jewellery sales increased by 40% year-on-year, indicating that consumers were spending more despite purchasing less volume, reflecting a shift towards viewing jewellery as an investment. BEST MOMENTS "We saw total gold demand in the first quarter up 1% to 1,206 tonnes, the highest first quarter of gold demand that we have seen since 2016." "In times of heightened uncertainty, gold tends to perform well; people see it as a safe haven asset." "Central banks have been net buyers of gold since 2010, and this trend is likely to persist." "Jewellery consumption was down 21% year on year, unsurprisingly given the rapid increase in price that we've seen." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GDT Q1 2025 Press Release: https://bit.ly/3YwykqH GDT Trends Q1 2025 Report: https://bit.ly/3ERvS7z GUEST SOCIALS https://www.gold.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/krishan-gopaul-32576114/ https://www.gold.org/goldhub/research/gold-demand-trends/gold-demand-trends-q1-2025 ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Adam Oehlman, CEO of African Gold, an ASX-listed junior explorer who are exploring and developing a multi-million ounce potential at the Didievi Gold project in Côte d’Ivoire. With qualifications in Geology, Mineral and Energy Economics and an MBA, Adam is an experienced mining professional with a strong background in both technical and commercial roles, holding key positions at Northern Star, Hancock Prospecting, and Goldfields. At the helm of African Gold, he gives us an overview of the business, recent activities they have undertaken, and some of the challenges they have faced and overcome. He understands the importance of mentoring, so he will provide some advice to young professionals starting out and the value you should always be looking to give your employees and others you work alongside in the industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Young professionals should seek guidance from experienced individuals and actively pursue opportunities rather than waiting for them to come. African Gold operates in Cote d'Ivoire, a premier West African mining jurisdiction with strong infrastructure and support from existing mining companies. The company is focused on exploring and developing its Didievi Gold Project, which has a maiden inferred resource of 450,000 ounces. The company is currently executing a 10,000-meter drilling program aimed at expanding its resource base. Adam believes that the current resource is just the beginning, with the potential to exceed one million ounces. Adam highlights the company's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. African Gold actively supports local communities, including educational programs and training for locals, to foster trust and demonstrate the benefits of mining. With gold prices at record highs, African Gold is well-positioned to capitalise on market conditions. The company plans to release a resource update and continue drilling to unlock additional resource zones, maintaining a steady flow of positive news for investors. BEST MOMENTS "I think you'd be crazy not to have a big focus on community and environment these days. It's a massive focus of us." "Every drill program we do, every hole we put in, there's gold in mind. It's not just drilling to test science; it's drilling to find answers and add shareholder value." "Cote d'Ivoire is just an absolutely lovely place. I've just been so surprised how welcoming the people are, how good the infrastructure is." "I always think people, you can probably live in your head a bit too much. So I think you probably need to think less and do more." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Website: https://www.african-gold.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/african-gold/ X: https://x.com/AfricanGold_Ltd Email: info@african-gold.com ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode we chat to Nicole Richards, CEO of Allonnia, who are a company harnessing nature to solve the biggest environmental challenges for net positive impact. They transform liability into value by leveraging the power of biotechnology and engineered systems to help our customers reach their ESG goals in a waste-free world. Nicole has over 28 years of industry leadership within water treatment, mining, and chemicals industries and gives us the history and story behind Allonnia, how they work with mining companies, how their technology helps mining companies hit their sustainability goals and thoughts on the trade wars that are having an impact on our industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Allonnia is leveraging synthetic biology to innovate within the mining industry, focusing on transforming waste into value and addressing sustainability challenges through biotechnology. The company is developing solutions for environmental contaminants like 1,4-Dioxane and PFOS, showcasing the potential of biotechnology to remediate harmful substances in various industries, including mining. Allonnia's first product, D-Solve, aims to selectively remove impurities from ore, which can enhance the grade of metals like nickel and improve overall mining efficiency while reducing environmental impact. The mining industry is increasingly open to innovation, with major companies actively seeking partnerships with startups to test and implement new technologies, creating opportunities for faster commercialisation. Focus on Value Unlocking: The immediate economic drivers for biotech in mining are centred around unlocking value from low-grade ores and waste streams, with long-term goals of reducing environmental liabilities and promoting sustainable practices. BEST MOMENTS "Waste is a failure of the imagination. How do you take synthetic biology or really transformational biology and bring that into these processes?" "In the near term, the biggest driver is in the value unlock... around metals recovery from low-grade ores and waste streams." "If you shut down a mine for a minute, the millions of dollars they're going to lose is incredible." "The way we look at it... is that that's been a huge improvement. They're creating innovation challenges." "What is rare is countries being able to domesticate the processing of those rare earths." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Get in touch at https://allonnia.com/contact-us/ Follow Allonnia on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/allonnia/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Karl Akueson, Founder, CEO, and Director of Switch Metals, who are the largest holder of coltan (tantalum and niobium) and lithium licences in Côte d’Ivoire with over 3,000 km2 of licences with their flagship project being the Issia coltan project. Karl is a natural resources entrepreneur and former investment banker with BMO Capital Markets in London, who co-founded Awale Resources and has now established Switch Metals. In this episode, he talks through his entrepreneur journey, the background to Switch Metals and their projects, Côte d’Ivoire as a mining jurisdiction, and the tantalum market, plus more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Switch Metals is primarily focused on tantalum, a metal used in various electronic devices due to its unique properties, such as heat resistance and conductivity. This focus differentiates the company from other mining ventures that typically concentrate on more common commodities like lithium. Cote d'Ivoire is highlighted as an attractive mining jurisdiction due to its infrastructure, stability, and under-explored potential. The country has a growing mining sector, particularly in gold, which provides a supportive environment for new ventures like Switch Metals. The company aims to generate early cash flow through shallow coltan placer mining at the Issia Coltan Project. This approach is designed to provide a strong cash flow foundation, allowing for sustainable operations and further exploration without relying heavily on equity financing. ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations are integral to Switch Metals' operations. The company emphasises ethical sourcing and community engagement, ensuring that local communities are informed and involved in the mining process, which helps mitigate the risks associated with artisanal mining. The immediate focus for Switch Metals is on resource definition through systematic pitting and bulk sampling to estimate the grade of tantalum. Following this, the company plans to conduct metallurgical studies and a scoping study to establish economic parameters, paving the way for future production. BEST MOMENTS "Tantalum is a metal that we use daily... It's used in capacitors, in the electronics industry particularly, but also in the cutting industry, in the alloy industry in general." "Cote d'Ivoire had that potential, but nobody really knows about it... I decided to build a company around this potential in the past few years." "We have this advantage of having both some material at surface... It's generally called placer deposits... It's something you can scratch from at the surface very shallow, it's free dig." "ESG is inherent to what we do... We have no choice but to meet all these ESG criteria because our end clients want us to demonstrate that we have traceability." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://www.linkedin.com/in/karl-akueson-b3456617/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/switch-metals/ https://switchmetals.com/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Andrew Hume, the MD of Thor Energy, a dual-listed exploration company (ASX and AIM) focused on natural hydrogen and helium, with a significant footprint in the highly prospective South Australian region. In addition to their clean energy focus, they maintain a diversified portfolio of strategic metal projects in uranium, copper, nickel, tungsten, lithium, and gold across Australia and the US, offering investors exposure to a range of key commodities. A geologist by background, Andrew has a 27-year career in the energy sector, holding key roles in multinational companies across business and technical disciplines, principally in the USA, Australia, Denmark, and the UK. After joining the company at the beginning of the year, Andrew gives us an overview of the company, news on the hydrogen and helium market, updates on their projects, and plans for the future. KEY TAKEAWAYS Thor Energy is rationalising its portfolio to concentrate on key assets, particularly in natural hydrogen and helium, while also maintaining a diverse range of strategic metal projects. This strategic focus aims to enhance the company's growth potential and market positioning. The natural hydrogen and helium market is viewed as having significant growth potential, with increasing demand for hydrogen in various industrial applications and the unique advantages of natural hydrogen as a cleaner energy source compared to traditional methods. Thor Energy plans to employ innovative exploration techniques, such as soil air analysis with gas chromatography, to better understand subsurface potential. This approach aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of identifying hydrogen and helium deposits. The recent Maiden Prospective Resource Assessment for the High Range project indicated promising figures, with substantial estimated volumes of hydrogen and helium. This assessment provides a strong foundation for future exploration and potential commercialisation efforts. BEST MOMENTS "Natural hydrogen and helium... has some of those same sort of hallmarks that the oil and gas industry would have had 100, 150 years ago... This really could be part of the global energy solution going forward." "The geology in our areas is really very interesting... We've got known discovered natural hydrogen and helium very close by... So we know we're in a very good place geologically." "Hydrogen... is almost the cleanest energy source, right? It's coming out of the ground. We're not having to put any energy into it to produce the hydrogen." "We're going to be looking at some other esoteric techniques... to better understand the right places to eventually drill." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://thorenergyplc.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/thor-energy-plc https://x.com/ThorEnergyPLC ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Santiago Montt, CEO of Los Andes Copper, who are focused on developing its 100% owned tier one Vizcachitas copper-molybdenum porphyry project in Chile. Vizcachitas is one of the largest advanced copper deposits in the Americas.Santiago is a seasoned mining executive with over a decade of experience in multinational mining companies. Before joining Los Andes, he spent more than ten years at BHP, where he held various senior roles overseeing corporate and legal affairs across the Americas, including in Chile, Brazil, and Australia. He gives us an overview of Los Andes Copper, discusses how Chile will continue being the number 1 jurisdiction for copper, and the outlook of the commodity for the energy transition. KEY TAKEAWAYS Los Andes Copper is focused on developing its 100% owned Vizcachitas copper-molybdenum porphyry project in Chile, which is one of the largest advanced copper deposits in the Americas, with significant resources and robust economic metrics. Transitioning from a major mining company like BHP to a junior mining company involves a shift in responsibilities and work dynamics, requiring a direct problem-solving approach and a willingness to engage in hands-on management. Los Andes Copper emphasises the importance of building trust and engagement with local communities, implementing programs that promote social value, such as female entrepreneurship initiatives and educational programs to prepare the workforce for future mining operations. The demand for copper is expected to rise significantly due to the global energy transition towards electrification, with estimates suggesting a need for an additional 10 million tons of copper by 2035 to meet this demand. BEST MOMENTS "We are a mining company that owns the Vizcachitas project, a copper moly project based in Chile, the number one producer of copper in the world." "When you decide to move from a major to a junior, it's a change of career. It's a change of lifestyles as well." "Copper is a fundamental element of nature. There's no better conductor... We're moving to decarbonise our economies. There's no replacement." "We have been doing a lot of work in this area... to increase and build trust and connection with the community." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS X: https://x.com/LosAndesCopper LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/los-andes-copper/ https://losandescopper.com/ info@losandescopper.com ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Ryan King, Senior VP Corporate Development and IR for Calibre Mining, who are a Canadian-listed, Americas focused, growing mid-tier gold producer with a strong pipeline of development and exploration opportunities across Newfoundland & Labrador in Canada, Nevada and Washington in the USA, and Nicaragua. Ryan has over 15 years of experience in capital markets, corp. dev and IR, working for the likes of Kirkland Lake Gold and Newcore Gold, and has assisted in raising over $350M during his career. He discusses the history and background of Calibre Mining, the project, the recent acquisition they made and the local initiatives they have in Nicaragua. KEY TAKEAWAYS Calibre Mining has successfully transitioned from a junior gold developer to a mid-tier gold producer, focusing on acquiring and optimising production assets in favorable jurisdictions like Canada and Nicaragua. The recent acquisition of the Valentine Lake gold mine is a significant step in diversifying their portfolio. Calibre emphasises community engagement, with 95% of its direct employees in Nicaragua being local nationals. The company prioritises creating job opportunities, providing training, and investing in local infrastructure, which fosters a supportive workforce and enhances its social license to operate. The company is actively pursuing exploration opportunities, particularly at the Valentine Lake site, where recent drilling has indicated promising mineralisation. This exploration success is expected to lead to increased reserves and production capacity. With the merger with Equinox Gold, Calibre anticipates generating significant operating and free cash flow from its combined assets. The focus will be on quickly de-leveraging the balance sheet while also considering reinvestment into exploration and potential returns to shareholders through dividends or share buybacks. BEST MOMENTS "We believe that there's going to be an opportunity to optimise that plant a little further... Why hinder ourselves from additional throughput and additional metal production if we assume that we will have that exploration success?" "The technical studies looked at what could we maximise the throughput to... we believe there's an opportunity to take it from 4 million ton phase 2, probably up to about a 5 to 5.4 million ton throughput." "We want to see that transition into a steady ramp up to nameplate 2.5 million tons throughput, as well as the continued unlocking of value through Greenstone as it ramps up to nameplate capacity." "We believe that Equinox is looking at those types of opportunities... one might be a share buyback. Also, I think top of mind would be a dividend policy for new Equinox shareholders." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS X – https://x.com/CalibreMiningCo Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/CalibreMining Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/calibremining/ Linkedin – https://ca.linkedin.com/company/calibre-mining-corp-cxb- Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@calibreminingcorp Website: www.calibremining.com Email address: calibre@calibremining.com ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Alan Carter, President & CEO of Cabral Gold, a mineral exploration company with a focus on gold and copper with a key asset, the Cuiú Cuiú gold project located in Northern Brazil. A geologist by background, Alan has an extensive career across South America so is well-positioned to develop this gold project in Brazil, and gives us an update on the Cuiú Cuiú Gold project since we last spoke, his outlook for the junior space, their latest drill results, mining in Brazil and outlook of the company. KEY TAKEAWAYS Cabral Gold is a mineral exploration company primarily focused on gold and copper, with a key asset in the Cuiú Cuiú gold project located in northern Brazil. The company aims to explore the Tapajós region, which has a rich history of gold production. The outlook for gold prices remains optimistic due to geopolitical tensions, inflation risks, and increased central bank demand. The junior mining sector, which has lagged behind major producers, is beginning to show signs of movement as gold prices rise. The exploration sector has evolved, with a shift away from traditional models that relied heavily on dilution for funding. Companies are now focusing on generating cash flow through initial small-scale production to fund further exploration and development. Recent drill results from the Cuiú Cuiú project have shown promising high-grade intercepts, including a notable 12 meters at 27.7 grams per ton of gold. This indicates the potential for significant discoveries and resource growth in the area. BEST MOMENTS "The fundamentals are driving are all pointing towards a higher gold price... Both political and economic uncertainty is usually very good for the gold price." "We've already got 1.3 million ounces on the scorecard. We're targeting five. This could be 10. It's definitely going to get a lot larger." "Instead of relying on one private placement after another... a much better strategy is to get into production as fast as you possibly can." Alan Carter: "The opportunity to really define a new world-class district... the potential of this region is, frankly, enormous." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Cabral Gold - https://cabralgold.com/corporate/management/ Alan Carter LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-carter-636a796a/?originalSubdomain=ca https://www.linkedin.com/company/cabral-gold/posts/?feedView=all https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuuhX3_5ABC-5RruviG1WKw ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we have a returning guests who appeared back in May 2022 (Episode 239), Terry Harbort, President, CEO and Director or Talisker Resources, a junior mining company involved in the exploration of gold projects of two advanced stage projects, the Bralorne Gold Complex and the Ladner Gold Project, both advanced stage projects with significant exploration potential from historical high-grade producing gold mines, as well as its Spencer Bridge Project. Terry is a structural geologist by background with over 25 years experience working across Australia, South America, and Canada during his career and has discovered a few significant deposits like AngloGold Ashanti’s Le Colosa and Gramalote deposits. At the helm of Talisker Resources for the past 6 years, Terry gives us an update since we last spoke, an overview of their Bralorne gold project, and all the technicalities around the resource, their approach to sustainability and environmental responsibility, and the biggest challenges they are facing as they go into first pour. KEY TAKEAWAYS The company is currently transitioning Braylorne into production, with plans to start mining operations by the end of April or early May, targeting an average grade of approximately 11 grams per ton over the first five years. Talisker has successfully implemented ore sorting technology, which has significantly increased the grade of the material processed, allowing for a more efficient operation without the immediate need for building a mill. Terry and his team work closely with First Nation partners and focusing on responsible waste management, including potential uses for waste material and transitioning to dry stack tailings to minimise environmental impact. Talisker boasts a diverse and experienced management team, including veterans from major mining companies, which enhances the company's ability to navigate the challenges of transitioning from exploration to production effectively. BEST MOMENTS "I think it really comes down to understanding, particularly continuity of these deposits. There have been a lot of classic failures in vein mining around the world where there hasn't been enough drilling or they don't understand the modelling of these structures." "We're looking at transitioning across into paste backfill, putting it back in the hole. We've got tonnes of holes there underground." "We're starting off here at just 100 tonnes per day for the first three months until we get everything sorted out." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://taliskerresources.com/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/talisker-resources X: https://twitter.com/Talisker_Ltd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talisker_resources Facebook: https://facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565501233511 ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In the episode, we chat with Oliver Friesen, CEO of Guardian Metal Resources, a UK based development company focused on critical and precious metals exploration. The company owns the flagship Pilot Mountain Project in Nevada, which is believed to host the largest undeveloped tungsten deposit on American soil. Oliver is a geologist and has over 10 year’s experience in both the mining and oil and gas sectors and has worked in Canada, the United States, Australia, and Africa. He founded Guardian Metal Resources in 2021 and led the IPO in May 2023, and we discuss the history and background of the company, the tungsten market, the uses of tungsten, Nevada as a mining jurisdiction, recycling of tungsten and much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Guardian Metal Resources is primarily focused on tungsten exploration and development, with its flagship Pilot Mountain project in Nevada believed to host the largest undeveloped tungsten deposit in the U.S. The company has also acquired another significant asset, Tempaiute, which was formerly the largest tungsten-producing mine in the 1980s. The tungsten market is currently experiencing tight supply due to geopolitical factors, with China, Russia, and North Korea controlling approximately 90% of global tungsten production. Recent export restrictions from China have further intensified the need for domestic sources of tungsten in the U.S. While defence applications drive short-term demand for tungsten, the metal is also crucial in various high-tech industries, including aerospace, mining, and renewable energy technologies. Its unique properties, such as high melting point and density, make it irreplaceable in many applications. Although recycling efforts for tungsten are increasing, they currently supply only about 20-25% of annual consumption in the U.S. The growing demand, particularly from defense sectors, means that new mine supply is essential to meet the shortfall. BEST MOMENTS "We are firmly positioned, we believe, as the leader in U.S.-focused tungsten exploration and development." "When Russia invaded Ukraine, it became clear that the Western world needed safe domestic sources of these important input metals." "The U.S. has no domestic supply. It hasn't mined any primary tungsten for over 10 years now." "It's a really unique metal because it has the highest melting point of any metal on the planet." "We're seeing a lot of investors pick up on this... critical metals is such an important global narrative right now." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://www.guardianmetalresources.com/ info@guardianmetalresources.com https://x.com/GuardianMetRes https://www.linkedin.com/company/guardianmetalresources/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with John Passalacqua, CEO and Director of First Phosphate, who are a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, in a responsible manner, and with low anticipated carbon footprint. John is an international business strategist with over 35 years of extensive technology and capital markets experience and was recognised as one of the top international business strategists during the early internet era. He has placed strong emphasis on strategic partnerships and cost-efficient development as core elements of the company’s growth strategy. He advocates for maintaining low capital and operational expenditures while constructing commercially viable facilities to support long-term expansion. In addition to his corporate leadership, John actively engages in discussions on global trade policy and its impact on the LFP battery sector advantages in this rapidly evolving industry and John’s on the podcast to give us the history and vision of First Phosphate, their mining practices and community engagement initiatives, technology they are using, the phosphate market and more. KEY TAKEAWAYS First Phosphate is strategically located in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, which is one of the few places in North America with high purity igneous phosphate essential for producing purified phosphoric acid used in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The company focuses on high purity phosphate, which is crucial for the production of LFP batteries. Unlike the majority of the world's phosphate used in agriculture, which is of lower purity, First Phosphate's product can directly produce the purified phosphoric acid needed for battery manufacturing. Phosphate-based LFP batteries offer significant environmental benefits compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The process generates recyclable gypsum, and the batteries themselves are less toxic and easier to recycle, contributing to decarbonisation efforts. First Phosphate aims to create a robust North American phosphate supply chain by integrating mining operations with downstream processing, ensuring that the entire production process from phosphate extraction to battery material is localised and efficient. BEST MOMENTS "We're located in a very, very rare portion of Quebec, the only real place in North America with hard rock phosphate." "To make purified phosphoric acid for batteries, you need high purity phosphate, which is not available from the 95% of the world's phosphate used in agriculture." "The hard rock phosphate is actually very, very clean. It's amongst the purest in the world." "You have to perfect your process in one country and then you might need to establish operations in many different countries to get around trade barriers." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Website: FirstPhosphate.com Investor Relations: investor@firstphosphate.com X: https://x.com/FirstPhosphate LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-phosphate Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@firstphosphate ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat to Luke Rogers, who is an experienced mining and mineral processing executive whose work has taken him all over the world providing technical capability and support to mining companies in developing countries across a range of commodities. An avid listener to the podcast, we have a general chat about education and learning and how we can start to educate our children and those outside of mining about our industry and improve the branding and understanding of this great industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Engaging with children and communities about the mining industry is crucial for shaping future perceptions and understanding of its role in society, especially in light of global challenges like climate change and the energy transition. It is never too late to pursue a career in mining or related fields. Many professionals have successfully transitioned into the industry as mature students, highlighting the value of diverse experiences and backgrounds. Mining professionals can positively impact local communities by actively participating in educational initiatives, supporting local schools, and fostering knowledge transfer to encourage interest in STEM subjects. There are many misconceptions about mining, often rooted in historical events. Educating the public about the industry's contributions to everyday life and its importance in sustainable development is essential for improving its reputation. BEST MOMENTS "It's never too late to join the industry... there are other mature students... who completely decided to change their career." "It's really important to educate the public... because they're not all going to grow up to be miners." "I think the more of us get out there and talk to people, the more people want to absorb." "You've got to get out there and do stuff. Things don't happen. You've got to be proactive." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Luke.rogers@imr.ltd https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukerogers1/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Patrick Elliot, President and CEO of Forte Minerals Corp, a listed Canadian exploration company committed to maximizing shareholder value through acquiring, exploring, discovering, and developing copper and gold projects in Chile and Peru. With a geology and mineral economics background, Patrick has over 17 years' experience in mineral exploration and resource sector finance and marketing working extensively throughout North and South America. He specializes in economic resource project evaluation, financial modelling, CAPEX estimation, and mining finance and discusses the history of Forte Minerals, Chile, and Peru as mining jurisdictions, leadership styles and insights, the copper market, and much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Forte Minerals Corp is a Canadian exploration company focused on copper and gold projects in Chile and Peru. The company aims to maximise shareholder value through acquiring, exploring, and developing these mineral resources. With over 17 years of experience in mineral exploration, the team at Forte Minerals has a unique strategy of leveraging a pipeline of pre-vetted copper and gold projects. This approach allows them to advance projects to drill-ready status, primarily targeting large mid-tier and major mining companies. Forte Minerals emphasises the importance of community relations in mining. They have developed an in-house social team to ensure consistent engagement with local communities, which is crucial for building trust and facilitating project advancement. The current copper market is experiencing supply crunch concerns, and junior miners like Forte are well-positioned to fill this gap. The company has been accumulating properties during downturns, allowing them to attract partners and advance projects when market conditions improve. BEST MOMENTS "I think the biggest misconception is that there might be some instability and the communities can be an issue in some of the regions... The largest copper producers in the world have been there for several decades." "We're not looking to find deposits that we could put into production ourselves... All these targets are for large company targets and we're essentially fuelling their pipeline." "We brought the social aspect in-house... It's vitally important. Short-term success can be measured with that type of strategy that we've deployed." "We're finally drilling our high sulfidation Puccarini project... This will be the first time as a public company that we've gone in and drill tested our own targets." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forte-minerals-corp Meta (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/ForteMinerals X (Twitter): https://x.com/Forte_Copper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forteminerals/ Website: https://forteminerals.com/ Contact Emails: Corporate inquiries: adalair@forteminerals.com Investor inquiries: kguichon@forteminerals.com ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Scott Vincent, President of the Critical Ocean Minerals Research Center, who are an organisation representing a group of stakeholders who have been studying seabed mineral extraction, and take a closer look at some of the important issues surrounding this method of mining. The organisation aims to provide balanced information on the environmental and economic aspects of deep-sea mining, addressing both its potential benefits and concerns. Scott’s background combines extensive experience in finance and investment with a focused interest in marine resource management, positioning him to contribute significantly to discussions on sustainable ocean mineral extraction. On this podcast, Scott talks about the benefits, negatives, and impacts of harvesting polymetallic nodules, some of the misperceptions about nodule harvesting, what it means for this industry with a new administration in power, and a lot more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Deep sea mining primarily targets resources located below 1,000 meters, focusing on three main types of formations: polymetallic nodules, seafloor massive sulfides, and cobalt crusts. Polymetallic nodules are considered the most attractive due to their ease of extraction and lower environmental impact. Harvesting polymetallic nodules can have negligible to positive impacts on human health and welfare. It offers a potential solution to reduce reliance on terrestrial mining, which often has severe negative effects on human health and the environment. Additionally, deep sea mining can lead to lower CO2 emissions and less toxic waste compared to traditional mining methods. There is significant opposition to deep sea mining, largely driven by environmental groups advocating for a moratorium. Common misconceptions include exaggerated claims about the destruction of ocean ecosystems and the potential release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which are not supported by scientific evidence. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) governs deep sea mining in international waters, but the presence of countries that rely on terrestrial mining for their economies complicates the regulatory process. Some nations, like the Cook Islands, are moving forward with regulations for deep sea mining. BEST MOMENTS "We found that there was just a lot of misinformation, omitted information, and there was kind of a void in the marketplace where there wasn't a response from industry to counter some of the narratives out there." "The first benefit I always talk about is the fact that it looks like the impact on human health, human welfare, from harvesting nodules is negligible to positive." "The interesting thing in my book is that WWF looks the other way when we have these atrocities in the DRC and Indonesia." "If we fulfilled all those requirements with nodule harvesting tomorrow onward for the next 20 years, we would only touch 0.06% of the abyssal plains." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://comrc.org/ https://x.com/COMRC_ORG https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556584570043 ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In the episode, we chat with Adrian Dance, Principal Consultant at SRK Consulting, an independent and international multi-disciplined mining consultancy focused on providing advice and solutions to clients, mainly in the earth and water resource industries. They offer services from exploration to mine closure and are specialists and leaders in fields such as due diligence, technical studies, mine waste and water management, permitting, and mine rehabilitation. Adrian’s expertise is in metallurgy and mineral processing and he's worked for the likes of Mount Isa Mines, Highland Valley, and Bisha Mining before joining SRK back in 2010 and is going to be talking about technology in mineral processing, using XRT over traditional sorting methods, AI, SRK’s partnership with Base Metallurgical Labs and why grade engineering plays a critical role in resource extraction. KEY TAKEAWAYS The mining industry is slow to adopt new technologies, which can significantly improve efficiency and processing. Embracing advancements like X-ray transmissive sensing (XRT) and AI can lead to better decision-making and operational flexibility. Implementing pre-concentration techniques to reject waste material early in the processing stage can enhance the economics of mining operations. This approach allows for the removal of waste before it enters the processing plant, reducing costs and environmental impact. The concept of grade engineering emphasises the need to actively manage and improve the quality of ore being processed. By utilising various techniques, such as differential blasting and sorting, mining operations can optimise the value extracted from their resources. Future mining operations will require more flexible processing systems that can adapt to the variability of incoming material. This includes the ability to make real-time adjustments based on the characteristics of the ore being processed. There is a need for the mining industry to break down silos between different disciplines. By fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, companies can improve overall efficiency and innovation in mining practices. BEST MOMENTS "What we really need to be considering now more than ever is improving the quality of the material coming in to really improve the economics." "We are losing expertise; we are not really getting a lot of traction of people coming to the industry." "If you take somebody outside of the mining industry and say, we're going to process 99.999% waste to get to that .001% valuable, someone would say, check your head." "The biggest thing we want to do is to avoid people from shooting themselves in the foot with this technology." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS Adrian's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-dance/ SRK's website: https://www.srk.com/ SRK's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/srk-consulting/ Adrian's SRK profile: https://www.srk.com/en/consultants/adrian-dance ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
In this episode, we chat with Tony Reda, Founder, President, and CEO of Tectonic Metals, a mineral exploration company, focused on the acquisition, exploration, discovery and development of mineral resources from district-scale projects in politically stable jurisdictions that have the potential to host world-class orebodies in North America. Tony has been in mining for 20+ years in investor relations and corporate development roles before taking the helm at Tectonic back in 2018 and shares his journey, give us an update on the company, their key partnerships and the broad milestones and strategy the company is looking to execute. KEY TAKEAWAYS Tony's career in mining began at the age of 21 when he invested in mining stocks, leading to a significant loss during the Bre-X scandal. He returned to the industry in 2005, focusing on corporate development and investor relations, which laid the groundwork for his role as CEO of Tectonic Metals. Tectonic Metals emphasises early-stage discovery opportunities and aims to partner with local communities and Indigenous groups from the outset. This approach includes forming impact benefit agreements to ensure community support and involvement in the exploration process. The Flat Gold Project, located in Alaska, has shown promising results, including a new gold discovery with significant grades. The project is situated in a mineral belt that hosts one of the largest undeveloped gold deposits in the world, indicating strong potential for further exploration and development. Tectonic Metals has established key partnerships with organisations like Doyon, the Alaska Native Regional Corporation, and Crescat Capital. These partnerships not only provide financial backing but also streamline the permitting process and enhance community relations, which are crucial for project success. BEST MOMENTS "We are partnered up with one of Alaska's largest leading native regional corporations... they’ve invested over $4 million supporting our efforts to explore on their land." "If you can hit gold in a kilometre-long target on your first attempt and hit grades as high as that, that tells you the system is huge." "We want something that's at least 5 million ounces or larger... this is not a one deposit system. Now there's potential for six of them." "The Trump administration is vocal about sort of, you know, homegrown resources and reducing their reliance on other countries for their natural resources." 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 This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS https://www.tectonicmetals.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/tectonic-metals/ https://www.youtube.com/@TectonicMetalsInc https://x.com/TectonicMetals ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. 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.
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