• From Military to Mining: Alex Walker's Journey and East Star Resources' Growth in Kazakhstan
    Jun 4 2025
    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 Rulika and Teloskoi, while continuing to refine its resource model for Vucuba. 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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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/
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    33 mins
  • Exploring High-Grade Gold Districts: Rua Gold's Journey in Reefton and Beyond
    Jun 1 2025
    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.Rural 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: Rural 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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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/
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    51 mins
  • The Importance of Early Planning: How Mining Companies Can Optimise Tailings Storage Facility Closures
    May 28 2025
    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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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.comSRK communications email address: communications@srk.com.auJustin: juwalls@srk.com.au Social media links: SRK: linkedin.com/company/srk-consultingJustin: 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/
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    25 mins
  • CanStar Resources' Strategic Joint Venture with VMS Mining Corporation
    May 25 2025
    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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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 ...
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    45 mins
  • The Tapanahony Gold Project: A Deep Dive into Suriname's Rich Geology and Exploration Opportunities
    May 21 2025
    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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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/
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    23 mins
  • Exploring the Impact of Commodity Price Fluctuations on Mining Investments with Richard Carleton
    May 18 2025
    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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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 ...
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    40 mins
  • Bridging the Skills Gap: Innovative Approaches to Attracting Talent in Geoscience
    May 14 2025
    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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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/
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    37 mins
  • Maximising Uptime and Efficiency: The Role of Gearless Mill Drives in Modern Mining Operations
    May 11 2025
    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 standardConstruction risk reviewsAsset 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/
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    25 mins