Dig Deep – The Mining Podcast Podcast

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.

In this episode, we chat with James Fryer, an experienced mining underwriter for Inigo, who are global specialists in high-risk, high-capacity insurance and reinsurance lines – serving some of the world’s largest commercial and industrial enterprises including the mining and resources sector. James explains more about the insurance industry, what mining companies could do better from a risk prospective, how insurance companies can improve their negative reputations, what are the current risk challenges in our industry, and what makes a good mining client from an insurance perspective. KEY TAKEAWAYS It's crucial for mining companies to fully understand the details of their insurance policies, including what is covered and what is not. Misunderstandings often lead to conflicts during claims. Insurance for mining companies should be bespoke, as each mining operation has unique risks and challenges. Insurers work closely with mining companies to develop tailored insurance products that meet their specific needs. Insurance companies need to adopt a more proactive approach to risk management by learning from past losses and providing clarity in policy wording. This helps ensure that mining companies have certainty in their coverage when losses occur. The mining industry faces new risks due to technological advancements, such as automation and electrification. Insurers must adapt their policies to address these emerging risks while also leveraging technology for better risk assessment and monitoring. A successful partnership between mining companies and insurers is built on trust and transparency. Long-term relationships allow both parties to better understand each other's risks and needs, ultimately leading to more effective risk management and support during claims. BEST MOMENTS "Insurance is just another method of risk management. It's that transfer of risk from the company to a third party, in this case being the insurance company." "Not every mine is the same. Our job is to work with insurance brokers and the mining companies to develop something that is suitable for them." "Insurance is very reactive. There are those losses that will occur that a 60-page insurance wording contract just isn't able to respond to." "The best insurance policy is one that you will never have to claim on because it means that you haven't had that financial loss." 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://uk.linkedin.com/in/james-fryer-71177913 www.MIRAassoc.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/mining-insurance-group/ https://inigoinsurance.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 Alex Langer, CEO of Sierra Madre, a Canadian listed junior miner with 2 metals projects in Mexico, with their flagship project, La Guitarra Mine in Mexico’s Silver Belt recently going into production. Alex is a successful public markets specialist with 20 years of experience, starting his career as an Investment Advisor with Canaccord Genuity, where he helped fund over 100 private and publicly listed companies including the IPOs for Endeavour Silver, Fortuna Silver, and Great Panther. He’s on the podcast to discuss the history of the company, now in production what’s next for the business, an update on the current silver market, and an update on the Mexican mining industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Sierra Madre has successfully transitioned into full commercial production at its flagship LaGuitarra mine in Mexico, which was previously on care and maintenance. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the company, allowing it to generate cash flows. The LaGuitarra mine covers approximately 28,000 hectares and has a rich history of silver and gold production. The company plans to allocate around $3 million for exploration to drill key areas, particularly the East District, which includes historically significant mines with high-grade material. Current high prices for gold and silver are beneficial for Sierra Madre, providing significant revenue opportunities. The company has structured its operations to maintain low costs, which allows it to be resilient in fluctuating market conditions. Recent changes in the Mexican government have led to a more favorable regulatory environment for mining, with new permits being issued and a renewed focus on the importance of the mining sector for the economy. This shift is expected to bolster confidence in mining projects within the country. BEST MOMENTS "We really wanted something that was fully permitted. And so we were quite fortunate that La Guitarra was fully permitted. First Majestic did an amazing job in terms of their community relations and environmental permitting." "We have now actually identified over 60 kilometres of vein material at surface. This area used to be one of the most prolific and historic producers of silver gold from the 16th, 17th, 1800s." "Every dollar a silver price goes up is really significant to our bottom line. It's straight revenue, which is wonderful." "We feel quite confident we can increase production relatively quickly and hopefully out of cash flows." 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://sierramadregoldandsilver.com/contact https://x.com/sierramadresm investor@sierramadregoldandsilver.com https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCERWQNg-1wABjaexIj_U6yA https://www.linkedin.com/company/sierramadre/ 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 Beth Borody, a seasoned leader in the mining industry and a trailblazer in driving diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the Founder and CEO of Femina Collective, Beth champions a community where women in natural resources can find connection, mentorship, and a supportive environment that fosters progress. Her vision is to transform the industry by creating safe spaces where women can collaborate, grow, and push for meaningful change. We are going to discuss Femina Collective and what they do and the challenges females in our industry are faced with which may not always be obvious to all. KEY TAKEAWAYS The mining industry is traditionally male-dominated, with women making up only 14% of the workforce globally. There is a pressing need for intentional efforts to increase female representation in all areas of the industry. The Femina Collective aims to radically change the experience of women in the mining industry by providing a supportive community that fosters connection, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth. Women are encouraged to engage in mining investments, as they tend to be more risk-aware and make long-term investment decisions. The Femina Collective is launching an investment arm to educate women about investing in mining and to create a private investment club. Increasing the number of women in leadership roles within the mining sector is not just a diversity initiative; it is a smart business strategy. Diverse leadership teams lead to better decision-making and improved company performance. The organisation aims to expand its reach globally, enhance its membership offerings, and eventually establish an owner-operator model in mining, demonstrating the positive impact of female leadership and investment in the industry. BEST MOMENTS "Our goal since day one, our mission is always to radically change the experience of women in the mining industry." "We know that when women are looking at health and safety, that sites tend to be safer, that trucks aren't destroyed as quickly and women drive safer." "We believe that if we can impact one woman and we can grow her confidence, we can work with recruiters to get her her next role, that's going to have a rippling effect." "It's not actually a diversity thing that we're trying to achieve here. It's just actually smart 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 https://www.thefeminacollective.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-femina-collective/ https://www.instagram.com/feminacollectivegroup/ https://www.thefeminacollective.com/blog 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 Cailey Barker, an experienced analyst and portfolio manager who started his career as a geologist getting experience in the field before moving into a senior position with the likes of Numis Securities and then more recently at Blackrock as their Director and Portfolio Manager. An active listener to the podcast, Cailey wanted to come on and talk about his insights into the gold market, the current state and outlook of mining, investment thesis in the industry and how Trumps tariff wars look to affect our industry and much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS The mining sector faces significant challenges, including cyclicality, poor past discipline among companies, increasing regulations, and public perception issues. Despite these challenges, companies are now in better shape with robust balance sheets and clear strategies focused on shareholder returns. While gold prices have reached all-time highs, interest in gold equities has waned. Factors such as high interest rates, geopolitical uncertainties, and a shift in investor focus towards sectors like technology and critical minerals have contributed to this trend. Junior mining companies struggle to secure financing due to a risk-averse capital market that favours large-cap established producers. This has led to a reliance on alternative funding sources, such as private equity and larger mining companies, for exploration projects. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors remain crucial in the mining industry, although they may not be as prominently discussed as before. Companies are now expected to have clear, actionable plans for sustainability rather than just making broad claims. BEST MOMENTS "To have that sort of focus, attention to detail, and whatever situation you're in... you can always sort of relate back to the fact that it's not as bad as being in a ring with an 18 stone monster trying to take your head off." "The opportunity set is incredibly compelling... I don't see it sort of returning to those lows that we've seen." "There's been a dearth of mining investment over the last decade... the risk-averse capital markets have just sort of moved to favour large cap established producers mainly." "If you can find something similar where you basically don't need to build a processing plant, all these sort of ESG considerations become a lot lower and the economics change dramatically." 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://caileybarker.com/ Email: contact@caileybarker.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caileybarker1/ 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 Gordon Stein, CFO of CleanTech Lithium, whose mission is to be a leading supplier of clean battery-grade lithium for the global energy transition by advancing direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, supplying green lithium to the EV and battery manufacturing market. Gordon has over 30 years of expertise in energy, natural resources, and other sectors in both executive and non-executive director roles. A chartered accountant who has worked with start-ups to major companies, including board roles of six LSE companies. He discusses the history of the company, the DLE process and technology behind CleanTech and financing options for technology companies and the Lithium market in general. KEY TAKEAWAYS Cleantech Lithium is advancing DLE technology, which allows for the extraction of lithium from brine sources in a more efficient and environmentally friendly manner compared to traditional methods like evaporation ponds. This process can extract lithium in just two days, achieving a recovery rate of 99.7%. The demand for lithium is projected to increase by 20% to 30% annually, driven by the electric vehicle (EV) market and battery storage needs. This growing demand highlights the importance of developing cleaner and more efficient lithium extraction methods. Successful financing for DLE projects requires a strong operational strategy, including demonstrating a viable resource, conducting independent economic studies, and securing government support. Establishing partnerships with car manufacturers and battery producers is also crucial for securing funding. The capital markets have become more receptive to DLE technology as successful projects emerge, such as those in Argentina and Germany. Investors are increasingly recognising the economic viability of DLE projects, even in a low lithium price environment. BEST MOMENTS "They set up Cleantech with a view of finding assets in Chile where they felt it was a good mining jurisdiction." "Direct lithium extraction... you can clearly see in every analyst it's going to be a dearth of supply over the course of time." "We will use 100% renewable power... and we will re-inject the spent brine back into the aquifer area." "Nobody is going to fund your project unless you've identified and delivered a resource." "The markets have been skeptical, but I think now they'll start to look." 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://ctlithium.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleantechlithium/ https://www.youtube.com/@ctlithium https://x.com/ctlithium 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 Marc Sale, CEO of First Class Metals, a junior miner focused on gold and critical exploration in Ontario, Canada. They are dedicated to unlocking the potential of untapped resources, providing innovative solutions to the supply shortage, and making a lasting impact in the mining industry. A geologist by background and a competent person for JORC and NI-43 101, Marc is an experienced explorer working in exploration and development across Africa, Americas, Europe, and Australasia during his career. He gives us an overview of First Class Metals and what they have been up to, talks about a recent partnership with the 79th Group they have secured, and an overview of the current exploration market. KEY TAKEAWAYS Marc has a diverse career in geology and corporate management, having worked in various regions including Australia, Africa, and South America. He transitioned from being an exploration geologist to holding several management roles, ultimately becoming the CEO of First Class Metals. First Class Metals is a junior mining company focused on gold and critical mineral exploration in Ontario, Canada. The company aims to unlock untapped resources and has a business model centred around developing properties to either joint venture or sell them. The company has two flagship projects, North Hemlo and Sunbeam, both of which are district-scale plays with significant potential. North Hemlo features the Dead Otter Trend, which has shown promising gold and molybdenum results, while Sunbeam has historical production and mineralization. A strategic partnership with the 79th Group is expected to provide First Class Metals with funding for exploration activities. This partnership will allow the company to pursue its exploration goals without the typical funding challenges faced by many small-cap explorers. First Class Metals emphasises responsible exploration and environmental stewardship. The company actively engages with local First Nations communities to maintain transparency and build trust, ensuring that their exploration activities are conducted ethically and responsibly. BEST MOMENTS "I would really like to find one more decent multimillion ounce gold deposit. I've been very fortunate in my career in that I've been associated with three multi-million ounce discoveries." "I think it's important to re-mention zigzag, the hard rock lithium target, which again has multimeter plus one percent lithium values and associated gallium, niobium and cesium on it." "I have to say one of the hardest billets I had was in Sardinia, where the landowners were equally as passionate, but they might only own two fields." "In these challenging markets, we can negotiate on properties at, shall we say, bargain basement prices." 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://firstclassmetalsplc.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-class-metals-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.

In this episode, we chat with Brooke Bibeault, CEO of Makor Resources, an African junior miner exploring developing the next generation of world leading mines across the artisanal and small-scale sector. They enable Artisanal and Small-Scale businesses in the raw materials value chain - from "Mine to Main Street", Production to Retail - to manage risks, build resilient sourcing strategies, capture value, and invest for social impact to address some of today’s most pressing concerns. Brooke has a diverse background in leadership development and business strategy and became the CEO of Makor Resources in 2019 when she moved to Africa. She gives us the background to the company, its mission in helping artesian miners develop locally and ethically sourced materials, her new A1 platform Sensr 360, her new podcast Mine to Main Street, and more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Makor Resources aims to transform ASM into a legitimate and investable sector, recognising its significant contribution to global mineral production and the economic potential it holds for local communities. The introduction of Sensor360, an AI-driven platform, allows for real-time monitoring and verification of ESG compliance, helping to identify discrepancies and mitigate risks associated with mining operations. Makor Resources emphasises the importance of engaging local communities in the mining process, ensuring that they benefit from the resources extracted and that their needs and priorities are considered in decision-making. The approach to mining should prioritise long-term stability and community development over short-term profits, focusing on building sustainable ecosystems that outlast the life of the mine. There is a need to shift the perception of mining from being a "dirty" industry to one that plays a crucial role in global economic resilience, innovation, and sustainable development, highlighting the positive impacts and stories from the sector. BEST MOMENTS "My career really has always been about solving high stake problems at the intersection of power, and looking at economics and global impact." "Artisanal and small-scale mining represents one of the largest untapped economic potentials in the global resource sector." "Mining depends on communities, and it's not about charity; it's about strategic alignment." "I think the biggest failures of traditional mining is that too much value gets extracted and too little gets reinvested into the communities." 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.makorresources.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookebibeault/ https://www.instagram.com/brookebibeault/ https://x.com/brookebibeault 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 Mark Austin, who is the COO and Senior Geologist of Alba Minerals Resources, who are a minerals exploration company with a portfolio of projects in the UK and Greenland. Their focus is on unearthing hidden value from previously drilled or mined projects in gold, graphite and ilmenite. Mark discusses Alba Mineral’s journey and in particular the history behind their Clogau Gold Mine, a royal connection, the challenges of bringing an old UK mine into production and the emergence of the UK mining industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Clogau Gold Mine has a rich history dating back to 1854, originally starting as a lead mine before transitioning to gold mining. It produced a total of approximately 88,000 ounces of gold over its operational years, with significant production occurring between 1890 and 1910. Alba Minerals Resources recognised the potential for extracting remaining gold from the Clogau mine, which had been left largely undeveloped. Their initial focus was on safety and compliance, addressing the mine's deteriorating conditions before moving on to exploration and production. The company faced environmental challenges, particularly concerning the presence of lesser horseshoe bats in the mine. They implemented measures to protect the bats, including specialised gates and regular surveys, while also ensuring compliance with Natural Resources Wales. Clogau Gold is sought after not only for its quality but also due to its historical significance, including its use in royal wedding rings. This connection contributes to a premium price above the standard market rate for gold. BEST MOMENTS "Alba saw the opportunity of looking at what has been left behind from Clogau... there's always ore left behind, whether it's in pillars or the old timers have missed the extension of a pay chute." "The ore body that has been mined is a quartz vein... the gold mineralization is very nuggety. It's little pods of gold... finding these pods of gold has been the history of Clogau Gold Mine." "Clogau gold can fetch a significant premium... the Queen Mother married the Duke of York with rings made from Clogau gold. That tradition continues today with Prince William and Kate." "Safety was a big factor... a mine 150 years old has degraded over time... making it legally compliant was quite a challenge." 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://albamineralresources.com/ info@albamineralresources.com 0203 950 0725 https://www.linkedin.com/company/alba-mineral-resources-plc/ https://x.com/AlbaMinerals 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 Spencer Cole, CDO and CFO of Xanadu Mines, a copper exploration company with projects in the South Gobi and Western Mongolia. They aim to develop porphyry and intrusion-related deposits and are committed to Mongolia and its potential as one of the last great copper frontiers. Spencer has qualification in Mech and Material Eng (BS), Business & Finance (MBA), Finance (CPA) and has worked in various industries including mining, aerospace, Oil & Gas across the Americas, Australia, and SE Asia. He’s been with Xanadu for coming up to 5 years now and gives us an overview of the company, their flagship project Kharmagtai and will educate us more on the Lassonde Curve and how that has an impact on the company plus much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Xanadu Mines is an ASX and TSX-listed exploration company focused on copper and gold in Mongolia, with its flagship project, Kharmagtai, currently at the Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) stage. The company has transitioned from coal exploration to copper and gold since 2013-2014. The Lassonde curve illustrates the typical life cycle of a junior mining company, showing how market capitalisation fluctuates through different stages of project development. Xanadu's journey reflects this curve, having experienced peaks and troughs as it moved from exploration to commercialisation. Hermagti faces challenges such as funding, permitting, and the need to identify high-grade zones to minimise negative cash flow. However, opportunities exist in the form of potential sequential heap leaching of weathered deposits and the possibility of expanding the resource through further drilling. Zijin Mining, a top global copper and gold miner, has partnered with Xanadu to advance the Kharmagtai project. This partnership is seen as beneficial due to Zijin's experience in advanced metallurgy and their aggressive growth model, which aligns with Xanadu's goals. Over the next 6 to 12 months, Xanadu aims to complete a bankable feasibility study for Kharmagtai and navigate the Mongolian permitting process. The company is also exploring funding options and planning further exploration activities for its other projects, Sant. Tolgoi and Red Mountain. BEST MOMENTS "Xanadu is an ASX and TSX, so dual listed exploration company... focused on copper and gold in Mongolia." "The Lassonde curve illustrates the typical life cycle of a junior mining company, showing its market capitalisation over the different stages of development." "Kharmagtai is a big, low-grade copper-gold porphyry. Its economics work on scale, low strip ratio, and byproduct credits." "Zijin is a top five copper miner... they have a very aggressive growth model and are really experienced at building value through advanced metallurgy." 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: www.xanadumines.com X/Twitter: @XanaduMines_ASX Linkedin: au.linkedin.com/company/Xanadu-mines-limited Email: spencer.cole@xanadumines.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 Taj Singh, CEO and Director of First Nordic Metals, who are a district scale gold miner in Northern Europe and one of the largest mineral claimholders in Sweden. The Company’s flagship asset is the Barsele gold project in Sweden, which is a JV with tier 1 gold producer Agnico Eagle Mines. Taj is a mining executive with over 22 years of experience in corporate development, capital markets, finance, project development, engineering, and operations. He is a Professional Engineer, holds a degree & masters in Metallurgy and Minerals Processing and a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA). He has previously founded and made discoveries with Discovery Silver and NOA Lithium Brines and now at the helm of First Nordic Metals, he gives us an overview of the company, discuss their partnership with Agnico, an overview of mining in Northern Europe and the exciting things they have planned over the coming years. KEY TAKEAWAYS First Nordic Metals is focused on exploration and development in the Nordic region, primarily Sweden and Finland. Their flagship asset is the Barsele Gold Project, which is a joint venture with Agnico Eagle Mines, holding significant potential with an estimated 2.4 million ounces of gold. The company boasts a robust executive team with extensive experience in the mining sector. Key members include Taj Singh (CEO), Adam Cegielski (President), and several others with backgrounds in successful mining ventures, enhancing the company's strategic direction and operational capabilities. Sweden and Finland are recognised as top-tier mining jurisdictions due to their pro-mining regulatory frameworks, low corporate tax rates, and rich geological resources. The region has a long legacy of mining, making it an appealing location for exploration and development. First Nordic Metals is planning one of the largest drill programs in Europe for 2025, with a focus on testing multiple drill-ready targets along the Gold Line Belt. The program aims to advance their exploration efforts and potentially discover new deposits. BEST MOMENTS "We believe that with 100 kilometers of the Gold Line Belt, there are two to three more deposits to be found, at least, with a similar size and scale to Barsele." "Sweden has become very pro-mining, really pushing projects ahead... They’re focusing on developing a strong industry where we can be leaders in sustainable mining." "Having Agnico there, both as a shareholder and as a joint venture partner, is fantastic... It's just been great in terms of info sharing." "We're trying to create Europe's next gold camp... We think there can probably be 2-3 other deposits to support a big complex." 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://fnmetals.com/about/ https://x.com/fnmetals https://www.linkedin.com/company/firstnordicmetals/ https://www.youtube.com/@firstnordicmetalscorp https://www.facebook.com/FirstNordicMetals 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 Tim Clark, CEO and Director of Fury Gold Mines, a Canadian focused high grade gold exploration company strategically positioned in 2 prolific mining regions in Quebec and Nunaveut in Northern and Eastern Canada. Tim is a senior executive with extensive experience in capital markets working for the likes of Barclays Capital and BMO. He has helped the transition of Fury Gold’s strategy to move from a hybrid development company into a dedicated high-grade gold exploration company focused on working with several of the largest gold producers globally. On the podcast, Tim shares his journey and that of Fury Gold, the exploration programme they will be undertaking, the capital markets industry, and how they are helping the local communities with their initiatives. KEY TAKEAWAYS Learning from experienced professionals helped Tim develop essential skills and navigate the complexities of the capital markets. Fury Gold Mines operates in Canada, focusing on high-grade gold exploration in regions with supportive regulatory environments, such as Quebec. This strategic positioning reduces geopolitical risks and enhances the potential for successful exploration. The company is set to begin drilling at the Éléonore South property, which has promising geological indicators similar to the nearby Éléonore mine. Successful drilling could significantly enhance the company's value and attract interest from larger mining firms. Fury Gold Mines prioritises building strong relationships with local Indigenous communities, recognising the importance of collaboration and support. This approach not only fosters goodwill but also helps in navigating regulatory landscapes and ensuring sustainable development practices. BEST MOMENTS "The risk is you get out there and you run out of money; the reward is if you find something, this is the part of the market you can make the most money and the most upside." "When I got into New York, they used to say a lot of your career is if you get lucky enough to sit next to a really great senior person that can teach you the ropes." "We have probably one of the better high-grade mines in the area. We've got 1.9 million ounces and around six and a half grams of gold, and that's very high-grade." "The interesting part about gold is it's the one currency that no one owns. It's here to stay as much as Bitcoin is up and down." 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://furygoldmines.com/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/furygoldmines X: @FuryGoldMines E-mail: info@furygoldmines.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 have a returning guest who appeared back in June 2024 (Episode 444). Emanuel Proença, CEO of Savannah Resources, one of Europe’s leading conventional lithium development companies, with one of the most significant lithium raw material assets in the European Union. With a background in industrial engineering, Emanuel is an experienced executive and an expert in the energy transition in mobility with a strong track record of managing transformation and generating growth within sectors including green fuels production and market development, electrification of mobility, liquid fuels hedging, trading, logistics and retail of liquid fuels, and digitalisation. Emanuel gives us an update on Savannah Resources, how the project is going to help with Portugal’s energy transition, and an overview of the lithium market in Europe. KEY TAKEAWAYS The lithium market is expected to grow significantly from 2025 onwards, driven by increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and battery storage systems. The company anticipates starting production in 2027, positioning itself to capitalise on this growth. Savannah Resources has focused on improving relationships with the local community by enhancing local facilities, employing local residents, and actively engaging in community events to foster understanding and support for the project. Europe is emerging as a key player in the lithium market, with several projects underway, including Savannah's in Portugal. The region is working to develop a complete battery value chain, from mining to battery production, to reduce reliance on imports. The company has secured strategic partnerships, including a deal with AMG Critical Materials, and is actively working on financing options to support its development plans. This includes potential backing from European development banks, which could significantly aid in capital expenditures. BEST MOMENTS "The fundamentals that drive growth in these two markets are just becoming stronger. The prospects for a very good opportunity from 27 and beyond become stronger also." "We have improved some of the facilities that we have in the villages... just the fact that you show a work area that is proper, tidy, neat, makes a big difference." "We know that we are still significantly undervalued versus some of the international peers on a price-to-net-asset-value comparison." 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://savannahresources-wwwsavannahresourcescom.azurewebsites.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/savannah-resources-plc/ X: https://x.com/savannahres 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 our 500th Episode, we bring you another distinguished guest that most of you will know. Rob McEwen, Chairman and Chief Owner of McEwen Mining, an exploration, development, and production mining company that mines and produces gold and silver in jurisdictions such as the US, Canada, Mexico, and Argentina. Rob is a prominent figure in the mining industry, known for his innovative leadership and entrepreneurial approach. He was the former CEO of Goldcorp taking the company from a market capitalization of $50 million to over $8 billion. Rob has won numerous awards and achievements including the “Order of Canada” back in 2007 and was inducted into the Mining Hall of Fame in 2017. We share his mining journey, the ups and downs of our industry and what you can learn, the history of McEwen Mining and what they have been doing more recently, and the outlook of our industry and so much more. A wealth of knowledge and wisdom so don’t miss this episode. KEY TAKEAWAYS Rob McEwen shared his extensive experience in the mining industry, detailing his transition from the investment sector to mining, and his success in growing Goldcorp significantly before founding McEwen Mining. McEwen discussed the complexities of the mining industry, including the difficulties of labor relations, as exemplified by a lengthy strike, and the importance of adapting to changing circumstances and expectations. There is a pressing need for the mining industry to improve its public image by demonstrating environmentally responsible practices and engaging with communities to change negative perceptions about mining. Rob emphasises the potential for technological advancements, such as automation and AI, to address labor shortages and improve operational efficiency, while also highlighting the exciting prospects of their large copper project in Argentina, which aims to set new standards for sustainable mining practices. BEST MOMENTS "I noticed there was a very different way of dealing with problems in the mining industry... it felt like I just stepped into a vat of quick-drying cement." "The union chose to no longer represent the workers and decertified... we went from producing 50,000 ounces a year at a cost of $360 an ounce to producing 500,000 ounces a year at a cost of $60 an ounce." "I think the industry needs to spend a lot more time showing the public that the work that's being done today is much more environmentally sensitive." "I'm a big believer that management... should have a large investment in their company... it keeps you focused on what is important." 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://mcewenmining.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 have a returning guest who has appeared on the show three times previously: Eldur Olafsson, Founder and CEO of Amaroq Minerals, a Greenland-focused mining company engaged in the identification, acquisition, exploration, and development of gold properties and other strategic mineral assets in Greenland. They recently poured their first gold, which is a significant milestone in the mine's development. A geologist by background, Eldur has worked around Greenland and Iceland for well over a decade and started Amaroq Minerals back in 2017 and has certainly come a long way since then. He gives us an update since pouring their first gold, some of the exploration they have been conducting and results achieved, and what his thoughts are on recent comments made by Donald Trump about taking control of Greenland plus much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS The company is actively exploring multiple sites in Greenland, particularly the Nanoq project, which has shown promising geological results. Plans are in place to deploy additional drilling rigs to further assess the potential of this deposit. Amaroq is committed to sustainable mining practices, including the development of a small-scale hydropower plant to reduce reliance on diesel and lower carbon emissions. The company aims to create a positive environmental and social impact in the communities where it operates. Amaroq Minerals is positioned as a key player in Greenland's mining sector, being the largest private investor and the most active developer and explorer in the region. The company aims to become a proxy for Greenland's mineral resources, attracting investment and interest. Looking ahead, the company plans to increase cash flow and production while continuing to explore for world-class deposits. The company is focused on building a portfolio of gold production sites and enhancing its operational capabilities in Greenland. BEST MOMENTS "We are the most active developer, now a producer, and an explorer. We believe that there is vast potential within the next five to 10 years to build up production off the range of 150 to 300,000 ounces." "To put this into perspective, we are the only mine that was built and operated this year in the Arctic. There are logistical challenges, but thanks to our team, we've managed to be successful." "We think this could be an absolute beast in terms of scale and in terms of size. We feel quite confident on that and excited about the prospect there." Elda Offison: impact on Greenland's resources, it's more likely we are able to open up the next mine with the same methodology." 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.amaroqminerals.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/amaroqminerals/ X - @Amaroq_Minerals or https://x.com/Amaroq_Minerals Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075745824312 Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@AmaroqMinerals/videos 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 Warren Beech, CEO at Beech Veltman, a leading mining, natural resources and energy focused law firm with a specialist team in mining, infrastructure, and natural resources. Warren is a highly accomplished and recognised mining, natural resources, infrastructure, and environmental law specialist. He provides multi-disciplinary legal and related services to the mining industry which includes health and safety, environment, anti-bribery and corruption / human rights, fair employment practices, community and social aspects, Black Economic Empowerment and transformation. He covers some of these topics above and discusses the challenges that the African mining industry is facing from many different angles. He will be also attending the Mining Indaba in February so be sure to reach out to him if you have any questions. KEY TAKEAWAYS The African mining industry faces systemic challenges such as regulatory uncertainty, infrastructure issues, and energy supply constraints. Political changes and the demand for greater citizen participation in mineral wealth are also significant factors impacting the sector. Compliance with safety regulations is crucial, and understanding the human impact of mining accidents can drive better safety outcomes. The approach to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices in mining has often become a tick-box exercise, which undermines its effectiveness. A more substantive approach is needed to ensure that ESG principles genuinely contribute to sustainability and community well-being. The Stilfontein illegal mining crisis highlights the socioeconomic drivers behind illegal mining activities, which are often linked to poverty and unemployment. Addressing these root causes and facilitating small-scale mining licensing could help mitigate the issue of illegal mining. BEST MOMENTS "The biggest challenge at the moment in Africa and the mining sector are the changes that are happening all along... political change is going to be one of the key themes for 2025." "Illegal mining has been around for a long time... What is unique and new about it is just the sheer scale of it." "If we were able to make it easier for small-scale miners to get licensed, then you'll start pushing out the illegal miners." "Health and safety is critical... The adoption of the zero harm principle is vital. I mean, everybody must be able to go home safely every day." 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.beechveltman.com warren@bv-inc.co.za https://www.linkedin.com/company/beech-veltman-inc/ https://x.com/BeechVeltman 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 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. He has recently stepped into the CEO role at Canstar and in this podcast, he shares his journey, the progress Canstar has made and discusses the political and economic landscape within mining and North America as the new US president takes position. KEY TAKEAWAYS Canstar Resources is focused on mineral exploration in Newfoundland, Canada, with a vision to create a diversified mining company that can capitalise on undervalued assets and leverage advances in data science and technology for efficient exploration. The company has three main project areas: the Buchans-Mary March project, which is rich in VMS deposits; the Mary March project, known for high-grade zinc; and the Golden Baie project, which has significant gold and antimony potential. Each project presents unique opportunities for exploration and discovery. The current geopolitical landscape, including national security concerns and the shift towards de-dollarisation, is expected to drive demand for critical minerals. The guest anticipates a new commodity super cycle, with increased investment in the mining sector as countries seek to secure their mineral supply chains. Canstar plans to build on its foundational work in 2024 by advancing exploration efforts in 2025. This includes conducting geophysical surveys, leveraging new technology for exploration, and potentially making acquisitions to enhance its asset base and capitalise on market opportunities. BEST MOMENTS "I think we are on the cusp of the next major commodity super cycle... we're going to see increases in commodity prices that are going to be sustained until we get supply that's in balance with the demand." "I think there's something in mining for everyone... whether your focus is on electrification and on the environment and climate change, whether your focus is on national security and the defense industrial base." "The way that we think about exploration, it's really about the acquisition of data and the interpretation and understanding of that data." "I think the companies that are going to be successful in this next cycle are going to be the ones that effectively tell that story." 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 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 Stephen Mullowney, CEO and Director of TRX Gold, a Canadian listed miner who are rapidly advancing their flagship Buckreef project in Tanzania, Africa. Stephen has over 20 years of experience in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and investments working for the likes of PwC and National Bank financial. He has been in the CEO role since 2020 and he shares his journey, what TRX Gold have been up to, the challenges they have faced including adopting new technologies, and discusses how they are working and helping the local communities and much more… KEY TAKEAWAYS The company faced significant challenges, including financial losses and a strained relationship with the government. Strategic capital raising and restructuring were essential to turn the situation around and achieve operational success. TRX Gold prioritises local employment and community benefits, ensuring that a significant portion of the workforce comes from the surrounding areas. This approach helps build strong relationships and secures the social license to operate. The company is leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, such as using drone surveying and advanced planning software, while balancing the need for local employment opportunities. With a positive outlook on gold prices driven by geopolitical risks and inflation, TRX Gold aims to increase production and exploration efforts, focusing on cost management and cash flow generation to support growth initiatives. BEST MOMENTS "My leadership style is one of consensus building and consensus decision making. I like to have individuals that have an opinion and that will want to add an opinion to come forward." "When I joined, the company was losing money. It didn't have a lot of treasury. Its relationship with the government needed improvement." "We're 100% local people operating the asset. The team on the ground has done a great job of staying out ahead of the bottlenecks." "I think gold prices are going to continue to perform in an upward direction and continue to move higher." 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/trx-gold-corporation/ Website: https://trxgold.com/ X: @TRXGoldCorp Stephen Mullowney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-mullowney-b9b63320/ X: @StephenMullown1 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 Steve Virtue, a communications and public affairs executive within the mining industry with deep expertise providing leadership to the sector, whether junior miners, producers, and mining suppliers. He brings a 25 year career as a public affairs professional, having spent much of the past 15 years working in and around the sector, helping to improve outcomes for some of the largest brands in mining. He brings exceptional skills as a government relations, communications, and stakeholder engagement professional. As an active listener to the podcast, Steve discusses political risks in mining as we have seen a recent surge in government intervention around the world within our industry and wanted to provide some content around this and how mining companies could possibly navigate their way around certain situations and how to best market yourselves in the media. We also speak about branding and social media in our industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Public affairs play a crucial role in supporting mining operations by managing relationships with government stakeholders, ensuring smooth operations, and mitigating political risks. Effective public affairs strategies can help mining companies navigate regulatory changes and maintain profitability. Governments are seeking genuine partnerships with mining companies rather than transactional relationships. Mining companies need to be proactive, ambitious, and constructive in their engagement with government officials to foster trust and collaboration. The political landscape is increasingly volatile, with significant changes in government leadership around the world. Mining companies must be prepared to adapt to these shifts, as new administrations may introduce unpredictable policies that can affect operations and profitability. The media industry is undergoing significant changes, with a decline in traditional outlets and a rise in citizen journalism. Mining companies need to adapt their communication strategies to effectively engage with audiences through digital platforms and social media, ensuring their narratives are heard amidst the noise. BEST MOMENTS "Governments are looking for partners. They want a real meaningful relationship, not just a transactional one where you come to me, solve my problem, and then move on." "The reality is that they do still require a very human touch. Public affairs is the exclusive domain of the relationship." "If you're tired of hearing your own voice, then let somebody else's voice speak for you. Talk about your social license to operate in the community." "There's a real education process that needs to happen. Mining is an environmentally friendly cause in many respects." 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.linkedin.com/in/stevevirtue/ https://x.com/stevevirtue Email - stevevirtue@icloud.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 Joe David, MD of Elementos, a resources development company focused on the exploration and development of tin projects into operations, with a focus on jurisdictions that demonstrate a high level of governance and foster a responsible approach to mining. Their assets are in Spain and Australia. With qualifications in Mine Engineering, Civil Engineering, and a degree in Finance, Joe’s career has spanned executive roles with private equity, listed and private mining companies, as an Associate Director within M&A advisory and running his own project development consulting company. During his career, he has managed the development of mining projects, bankable feasibility studies, exploration and metallurgical programs, project financing, corporate finance advisory, corporate strategy, and mergers and acquisitions. He gives us an overview of Elementos, their Oropesa Tin Project and Cleveland Project, the tin market, and advice for those seeking c-suite roles in mining. KEY TAKEAWAYS Elementos is a resources development company focused on tin projects in Spain and Australia. The company aims to become a vertically integrated tin producer within the European Union, addressing the current lack of domestic tin supply in the region. The flagship asset, the Oropesa Tin Project in Andalusia, Spain, is positioned to produce approximately 5,400 tonnes of tin concentrate per year. The project benefits from a supportive regulatory environment and is expected to receive necessary permits by the end of 2025 or early 2026. The Cleveland Tin Project in Tasmania has a rich history of tin mining and significant resources. Recent drilling has revealed promising tungsten mineralization, indicating potential for additional valuable resources alongside tin and copper. While developing mining projects in Europe can be challenging due to regulatory hurdles, Spain is seen as a favourable location due to its historical mining background and government support for revitalising the industry. The European Union's Critical Raw Materials Act further encourages domestic production, making it an attractive environment for mining investments. BEST MOMENTS "For me, I want to explain how I've got to where I am in my career, certainly took the generalist path, which can certainly be a frustrating path when you don't feel like maybe you're progressing as much as the specialist early in your career." "There's currently no operating tin mines within the European Union at all. There's no domestic supply." "The tin industry has been screaming out for vertical integration for a while... we're just not a company that's prepared to sit around and wait." "Spain is a bit of an outlier... the Iberian Peninsula has had a long history of mining... and the Andalusian government is putting huge investment effort into rebuilding the Spanish mining industry." 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.elementos.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/elementos-limited/ https://x.com/ElementosTin 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 Mark Sawyer and Mike Stuart of Omico Mining Corp who are a joint venture between Greenstone Resources LP, a private equity fund specialising in the mining and metals sector, and International Base Metals Limited, an Australian natural resources unlisted public company and advancing the development of the copper asset in central Namibia. Mark has a background in finance and law and Mike’s background is in geology. Today we talk about the history of the business, their recent released BFS, the project and discuss what’s happening in the market. KEY TAKEAWAYS Omico Mining Corp is a joint venture between Greenstone Resources LP and International Base Metals Limited, focusing on the development of a copper asset in Namibia. The company aims to leverage its expertise in finance, law, and geology to advance the project. The project will utilise solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX/EW) processing technology, specifically a chloride heap leach method. This approach has been optimized over four years of metallurgical testing, resulting in reduced acid consumption and shorter leach cycle times. The project is situated in a mining-friendly jurisdiction with existing infrastructure, including access to power and water. A 70-kilometre power line will be built, and a significant aquifer has been identified for water supply, which is crucial for the heap leaching process. Omico Mining Corp already holds a valid mining license until 2036. The company has completed the environmental and social impact assessments and is awaiting environmental clearance, which is expected in the first quarter of the following year. BEST MOMENTS "We see this time and time again... corners were cut. A lot of money was wasted. I think there was a missed opportunity to look at this from an entirely different perspective." "The advantage of using heap leach over the previous ideas of using flotation was that it uses about a third of the water previously." "This is a project that will get built. The challenge for us is to put the right structure in place to move the project forward." "There is exploration potential around the whole dome. We haven't focused on it in the last few years... but there is some potential." "Given the scarcity of shovel-ready copper projects out there, there's a lot of interest in it 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 GUEST SOCIALS https://www.greenstoneresources.com/ https://www.omicomining.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 Nick Bell, Global Sector Lead Mining, Minerals, and Metals at Worley, who are a global leader in engineering, project delivery, and consultancy for the energy, chemicals, and resources sector and helps customers achieve sustainable transformation, net-zero targets and innovative solutions. Nick has a background in metallurgy and engineering and has worked for some of the leading engineering consultancies during his career. We talk about some of the biggest challenges that the mining industry is facing, trust in our industry, the risks and opportunities in automation and long-term global trends that will shape the mining industry over the next decade. KEY TAKEAWAYS The mining industry faces significant challenges in meeting the growing demand for critical minerals, particularly due to a decline in major deposit discoveries and lengthy mine development timelines, which average around 16.9 years. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements are becoming increasingly stringent, complicating the permitting process and increasing costs for miners. The industry must find ways to balance the need for more metals with these elevated ESG standards. Trust between mining companies, local communities, and regulators is crucial for project success. Establishing a common purpose and practicing the four legs of trust—reliability, openness, acceptance, and congruence—are essential for fostering collaboration. Automation presents significant opportunities for improving safety and productivity in mining operations. However, the industry must carefully manage the change associated with automation, as it can impact employment and community relationships. BEST MOMENTS "Projects move at the pace of trust... finding a common purpose against which everybody can align is very, very difficult." "We're simply not finding enough major deposits that... proved to be economically viable in today's environment." "If you can't find... a common purpose, it's our job as the industry to build that trust." "The elevated ESG requirements... mean that it lengthens the time and the costs of getting that metal to market." "Now is still a good time to be in mining compared to any time in my history." 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.worley.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/worley/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bell-383b919/ 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 Richard Osmond, CEO of Element 29 Resources who are an emerging junior resource company with a highly experienced management team and board focused on exploring and growing its porphyry copper-molybdenum-silver resource deposits in Perú, one of the lowest-cost, lowest-risk mining jurisdictions globally. Richard has over 25 years of experience in the mining sector across North America, Europe, and Scandinavia, working for companies like INCO, Falconbridge and Anglo American. Richard discusses the history of Element 29, the projects they are involved in, Peru as a mining jurisdiction, the challenges they have faced, and the leadership qualities needed for a junior miner. KEY TAKEAWAYS Element 29 is an emerging junior resource company focused on exploring and developing porphyry copper, molybdenum, and silver deposits in Peru. The company was spun out from Globetrotters Resource Group, which spent seven years building a copper portfolio before listing in late 2020. Peru is recognised as one of the lowest risk mining jurisdictions globally, being the second-largest copper producer. The country has a strong mining sector that contributes significantly to its economy, with a free trade agreement and bilateral investment treaties that protect foreign investments. Elida is the flagship project of Element 29, featuring a porphyry copper-molybdenum-silver deposit. The project has shown promising initial resource estimates, and the company is currently drilling to expand the resource base and improve the quality of the starter pit. Copper Market Outlook: There is an anticipated supply crunch in the copper market, driven by increasing demand for copper in renewable energy and technology sectors. The company expects copper prices to rise due to the imbalance between supply and demand, with a focus on making new discoveries to meet future needs. BEST MOMENTS "Peru is, generally speaking, it's held a position as the second largest copper producer globally... Mining makes up about 60% of Peru's exports and about 10% of the country's GDP." "We feel that, you know, we've been looking for copper for quite a long time. We've sort of known that this copper crunch was coming." "We outlined an inferred mineral resource estimate of about 321.7 million tons of 0.32 copper, 0.03 molybdenum, and 2.6 grams per ton silver." "We do a lot of work on health, safety and security, implementing best practices... We want to make sure that we do best practices from a sustainability perspective." 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/company/element-29-resources-inc/ https://x.com/CopperE29 https://e29copper.com/ https://e29copper.com/_resources/presentations/corporate-presentation.pdf?v=112103 888-246-7881 (toll free in North America) info@e29copper.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 have a returning guest who appeared back in December 2019 (Episode 55). Martin Horgan, formally the CEO of Centamin, a gold producer with an operation in Egypt who have recently been acquired by Anglo Gold Ashanti as of 22nd November. A mine engineer by background, Martin has 30 years of experience in the industry working in the field, consultancy, and on the banking side before starting his own mining company, Toro Gold before selling this to Resolute. For the last 4 years, he has been at the helm of Centamin, transforming the company and its flagship operation Sukari into what it is today. Martin takes us through his career and journey and talks about his more recent success with Centamin and what he did to change the fortunes of the business. KEY TAKEAWAYS Martin has a diverse background in mining, spanning over 30 years, including roles in operations, consultancy, and investment banking. His experience has equipped him with a broad understanding of the mining sector, which he leveraged to transform Centamin. Upon joining Centamin, Martin focused on improving geological understanding, which led to a significant increase in the underground reserve from 400,000 ounces to 1 million ounces. This foundational change allowed for better mine planning and execution, ultimately enhancing production capacity. It's vital to build strong relationships with local communities, regional authorities, and national governments. Effective stakeholder engagement is crucial for navigating the complexities of operating in riskier jurisdictions, particularly in West Africa. The launch of Centamin's decarbonisation roadmap was driven by both a moral imperative to mine responsibly and investor expectations for transparency and sustainability. Martin believes that mining must demonstrate its role in decarbonisation and societal benefit to maintain its social license to operate. BEST MOMENTS "I think the thing that sort of surprised me within the West African sphere is that it was the rate of change... it's how quickly they changed as well." "If you get the right people in place... that's what drives success to my mind, you know, ore bodies are ore bodies." "We went from zero to in excess of 50 female professional employees at Sukari in a couple of years." "If you're focused on that, if that's your primary driver, then that does a couple of things for you if you end up in a transaction phase." 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/martin-horgan-038b298/ 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.