Tell Craig Your Story

Hope White - Australia - Sydney Giants / NSW / Australian Netball athlete

🎙️ Episode 175 – Tell Craig Your Story
This week, I’m joined by Hope White, a dynamic midcourter for the Sydney Giants in the Suncorp Super Netball League.

Born in Newcastle, Hope’s journey began at the Newcastle Netball Association before moving to the Central Coast Heart, where she developed under coaches Amber Cross. Her dedication led her to represent NSW and then Australia at U19 and U21 levels, making history as one of the youngest players in Australian netball.

Now a full-time Giant under coach Nerida Stewart, Hope has re-signed with the team through 2026 and continues to inspire young athletes with her passion, agility, and resilience.

🔥 Don’t miss this inspiring chat about her journey, resilience, and passion for the game 📲 Guest: @hopewhhite

*Spoiler Alert- Hope mentions that she will find out about making the Under 21's Australian Netball Team tomorrow, and as we are writing, Hope did make the team, so congratulations to her!!!!!*

🎧 Listen here:

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👉 YouTube: @tellcraigyourstory

#TellCraigYourStory #PodcastGuest #InspiringStories #AthleteJourney #SportsPodcast #HopeWhite #SydneyGiants #GiantsNetball #SuncorpSuperNetball #NSWNetball #AustralianNetball #NetballLife #RisingStar #YoungAthlete #SportsInspiration #WomenInSport 

Daria Vedenskaya - Russia - Fitness Coach / Personal Trainer

Episode [174] – Daria Vedenskaya (Fitness Coach, Zumba on the Bund)

Please welcome to the podcast, Daria Vedenskaya, joining us all the way from Vladivostok, Russia. Daria studied in Shanghai, China, where she works as an Import-Export Agent. But her true passion lies in the world of fitness and personal training.

She offers online classes as well as one-on-one personal coaching, tailoring each program to individual needs. In Shanghai, Daria is well-known for her popular Zumba on the Bund sessions and her Pulse Revolution workouts—guaranteed to get your heart pumping.

Daria has also taken the stage as a speaker at PechaKucha events in Shanghai, where she shared her story and inspired others. In this episode, we dive into her journey: growing up in Russia, the challenges she faced as a teenager, diet and nutrition, Russian food culture, and the moment someone suggested she head to Shanghai to follow a new path.

Join me on this inspiring conversation with Russian-born fitness coach, trainer, and entrepreneur, Daria Vedenskaya.

📲 Instagram: @daria_vedenskaya
📲 WeChat: dariavedenskaya

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@tellcraigyourstory

#dariavedenskaya #personaltrainer #fitnesscoach #tellcraigyourstory #shanghaichina #pulserevolution #zumba #athlete #diet #training #podcast #PechaKucha #Pilates 

Gavin Malone - Ireland - Co Host of That Sound Podcast

🎙️ Episode 173 – Gavin Malone (That Sound Podcast)

Please welcome to the podcast Gavin Malone, co-host of That Sound Podcast based in Ireland. Gavin dives deep into album reviews, live concert experiences, and the latest news from the world of rock.

We immediately connected over our mutual love for Metallica—a recurring theme in this episode. Gavin's recent podcast work includes reviewing iconic Thin Lizzy albums and an insightful interview with the owner of Slane Castle, one of Ireland’s most legendary live music venues.

Although still new to the podcasting scene, That Sound Podcast is quickly gaining traction and respect in the rock community.

🎸 In this episode, we chat about:

Gavin’s passion for Metallica

The fascinating Slane Castle interview

His thoughts on Ozzy Osbourne

The rumoured Metallica residency at The Sphere, Las Vegas, And much more...

🎧 Check out That Sound Podcast: linktr.ee/thatsoundpodcast

📲 Follow:
@that_sound_podcast
@mogleymalone

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@tellcraigyourstory

#GavinMalone #ThatSoundPodcast #TellCraigYourStory #Ireland #UK #Metallica #Oasis #ThinLizzy #LarsUlrich #JamesHetfield #FIFAWorldCup #LasVegas #WrexhamFC #KirkHammett #OzzyOsbourne #RIP #podcast #SlaneCastle #TheSphere #rockmusic #heavymetal #applepodcast #spotifypodcast

Xiaojiemen (小解闷 ) - China's International Wrestling Influencer

Episode 172 – Xiaojiemen: China’s International Wrestling Influence

In this episode, Craig sits down with Xiaojiemen, one of China’s most influential figures in the world of professional wrestling. Known for his dynamic presence on Bilibili—with over 34,000 followers and 11 million+ total views—Xiaojiemen has become a trailblazer in promoting and celebrating wrestling culture in China.

We dive deep into his journey from participating in the WWE China Tryout in 2019, to becoming the official commentator for WWE on Huya (2021) and Bilibili (2023). He shares behind-the-scenes stories from interviewing WWE superstars like Ricochet, Shozi, and Xia Li, and talks about the booming growth of wrestling fandom across Asia.

Xiaojiemen also opens up about his creative work—ranging from entrance music covers, wrestling documentaries, live game commentary, to designing custom championship belts and collaborating with AEW x Street Fighter/Tekken on limited edition merchandise.

We also explore his contributions to MKW, KOPW, OWE, and NTW, and how he's helping bridge international wrestling with Chinese audiences through live commentary, graphic design, and fan-focused media.

Instagram @xiaojiemen  X/ BiliBili @小解闷 

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@tellcraigyourstory

#WWE #ProWrestling #AEW #TellCraigYourStory #podcast #WrestlingPodcast #WrestlingCommunity #ChineseWrestling #BiliBili #Xiaojiemen #WrestlingContentCreator #WWEChina #HulkHogan #OzzyOsbourne 

James Murray - USA - Teacher / Author / Ring Announcer

Episode 171 – Please welcome to the podcast, Author and Ring Announcer James Murray!

James is a multi-talented creator whose work spans across comics, poetry, and live entertainment. His impressive bibliography includes Classic Horror Comics, Frankenstein: The Illuminatus Complex, and a poetry collection titled Almost Normal. He's also the author of Billy the Kid Meets the Masked Striker, published under his independent label, Hard Coal Studios.

Originally from Shamokin, Pennsylvania, USA, James now resides in Zhuhai, China. He studied at Bloomsburg University and was an active member of the River Poets group in Bloomsburg, PA.

In addition to his literary work, James is widely recognized in the world of professional wrestling as a Ring Announcer, most notably with MKW Pro Wrestling in China. I had the pleasure of meeting James in person last Saturday night at MKW’s Battle of The Decade, where he lit up the crowd and helped kick off an unforgettable live event.

Catch James Murray in person at these upcoming events in 2025:

• July 5–6: Komiket International Comics Convention, Megamall, Manila, Philippines

• July 19–20: Hershey Comic Con, USA

• August 9: Nittany Comic Con, State College (Penn State), PA

• August 16: Lehigh Valley Comic Con, Allentown/Bethlehem, PA

• October 17–19: Baltimore Comic Con, Maryland

• November 21–23: Monster Mania, Oaks, PA (Philadelphia area)

• December 6: Lehigh Valley Comicon, Pennsylvania

Tune in to hear James talk about storytelling, wrestling, comics, poetry, and his journey from the coal region of Pennsylvania to the wrestling rings of China!

@hardcoolstudios

http://www.hardcoalstudios.com/

https://globalcomix.com/c/billy-the-kid-meets-the-masked-striker/

#jamesmurray #billythekidmeetsthemaskedstriker #writer #author #hatdcoalstudios #ringannouncer #wwe #aew #newjapan #tellcraigyourstory #wwenxt #mkwprowrestling #frankenstein #almostnormal #shamokinpennsylvania #beijingchina #adriangomez #rocky #hulkhogan #zhuhaichina #poetry

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@tellcraigyourstory

Rob Dietrich - USA - Master Distiller of Metallica Blackened Whiskey

Episode 170- We’re thrilled to welcome Rob Dietrich — Master Distiller and Blender of Blackened American Whiskey — who joins us while on tour with Metallica as part of the explosive Metallica Takeover events.

Before becoming the face behind Metallica’s signature Blackened whiskey and cigar's, Rob lived a life few could imagine. From his early days serving in the U.S. Army to working as an event manager and roadie for some of the biggest names in music, Rob has truly seen it all — behind the scenes and behind the bar.

In this episode, Rob opens up about his wild journey through the world of live music, his transition into the whiskey industry, and how he blended both passions into something legendary. He shares the science behind Blackened Whiskey's sonic-enhancement process, using Metallica’s own music to shape the flavour of every barrel. He also shares his thoughts on the award winning Rye The Lightening

From backstage chaos to barrels of perfectly tuned whiskey, Rob’s story is one of grit, creativity, and rock ‘n’ roll spirit. @robwhiskey @blackenedwhiskey https://blackenedwhiskey.com

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#robdietrich #blackenedwhiskey #metallica #masterdistiller #drewestateblackenedcigars #denvercolorado #surfing #schoolbus #jameshetfield #larsulrich #kirkhammett #robtrujillo #davepickerall #usarmyservice #metallicatakeover #ryethelightening #metallicafamily #batch100 #batch106

IONU - Russia - New debut Album Poison Waters

This episode is a powerhouse showcase of international talent. IONU, the Russian rock band now lighting up the Shanghai music scene, brings serious energy, passion, and versatility. Known as the house band Red Star's at the iconic Pearl Theatre, they deliver top-tier tribute performances and original music that spans hard rock, funk, pop, and heavy metal.

The conversation gives listeners insight into their journey—from Russia to China, from cover shows to crafting their own distinct sound. Their debut album, Poison Waters launched in January 2025, is a testament to their musical range and commitment. The 3 tracks from the podcast are Taste of Love, Simple Song, and Crime.

Ksenia’s vocals are powerful and dynamic, Eugene’s basslines groove hard, Gil drives the rhythm with precision on drums, and Alexander shreds with soul on lead guitar. Their chemistry as a band comes through both in conversation and in every track. @ionu_offical @thepearlshanghai

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@tellcraigyourstory

#ionu #redstars #russia #thepearlshanghai #pearltheatre #papag #grantoh #tellcraigyourstory #poisonwaters #houseband #hardrock #albumlaunch #tasteoflove #simplesong #crime #shanghaichina #ringnoise #redstars

Marty Friedman - USA - Platinum selling recording artist / Iconic Guitarist / Official Ambassador of Japan Heritage

Please welcome to the podcast one of the all time greatest guitar players, Marty Friedman. Born in Washington DC, USA, he started his music career with bands Hawaii and Deuce before forming Cacophony with Jason Becker. Friedman joined Megadeth in 1990 and their Rust In Peace album, is considered one of the best heavy metal album ever. He received International success touring the world and having multi platinum albums. Friedman left Megadeth in 2000 and in 2003 moved to Japan to start a whole new life.

Since moving to Japan he has become a Japanese celebrity and has eclipsed his accomplishments in Megadeth. He has released multiple solo albums, has been a producer and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in J-Pop, having consistent sold out tours. Friedman is a TV Star and a cultural ambassador. In December 2024 he released his autobiography which has been critically acclaimed around the world

Marty's band will be touring China next May in support of his new album Drama. He will be performing in Shanghai 15th May, Beijing 17th May and Guangzhou 18th May. We have 2 free tickets to give away to the Shanghai show. All you have to do is send a screenshot that you have shared this podcast on your social media and answer this question from the podcast- What Chinese pop star does Marty Friedman want to collaborate with? Send your DM to my Wechat or send to cjmaguire@hotmail.com . Winners will be announced on the 8th of May. 

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@tellcraigyourstory

#martyfriedman #drama #dreamingjapanese #chinatour #bilibili #jacksonguitar #megadeth #davemustaine #rustinpeace #illumination #shanghaichina #jasonbecker #hawaii #deuce #kiss #madonna #theramones #riverplatefc #jaychou #fender #guitarist #soloalbum #cocaphony #japanesetvstar #momoiro #cloverz #culturalambassador #japan #japaneseculture #j-pop #dragonkiss #jeffloomis #tokyojukebox