In The Ball Park

Sam Menhennet and Michael Serpell wrap up an absolute classic 2026 AFL Grand Final. The Brisbane Lions have secured a historic three-peat after a chaotic seven-point victory over a heartbroken Fremantle Dockers. The boys review the dramatic final minutes, discuss Chris Fagan stepping down at the top of his game, and dive straight into a massive off-season trade frenzy featuring blockbuster moves for Lachie Neale, Zach Merrett, and more.

Sam Menhennet and Michael Serpell reunite from opposite sides of the globe, with Michael in Mexico and Sam live from The MCG to preview the massive all-interstate 2026 AFL Grand Final. Who will take home the premiership cup, with the Brisbane Lions chasing a historic three-peat and the Fremantle Dockers hunting their maiden flag? Get all the preview, analysis, and September fun. Tune in or watch via Facebook or YouTube.

Sam Menhennet and Michael Serpell reunite from opposite sides of the globe, with Sam in Melbourne and Michael amidst the Mexican Independence Day. They kick things off by recapping the massive NFL game at the MCG. Then, it is down to business as they preview a massive Preliminary Final weekend featuring all top four teams. Breaking down Friday night clash between the Sydney and Fremantle at the SCG, followed by the Saturday twilight blockbuster between Hawthorn and Brisbane at the MCG. Who will make the Grand Final? Plus, a quick look ahead to the upcoming VFLW and VFL grand finals.

Sam Menhennet and Michael Sapel reunite from opposite sides of the world to unpack a wild opening week of finals, including Hawthorn's huge upset over Fremantle, Geelong's win over Carlton, Sydney's stunning victory over Brisbane and Adelaide holding off the Bulldogs. We look ahead to a massive semi-final weekend, make our tips. Plus, Sam chats with Eddie Betts and NFL hits Melbourne.

In the Ballpark is back for the 2026 AFL Finals Series! ⚡️🏉

Sam Menhennet and Michael Sapel reunite from opposite sides of the world to dive into the business end of the season. We break down the brand new Wild Card finals, before looking ahead to a massive first week of finals. Plus, Sam chats with Dale Thomas after the Legends Game.

It all comes down to this. Sam and Michael preview the 2025 AFL Grand Final live from outside the MCG, where Geelong and Brisbane clash for the flag. They revisit the road to the big dance, key injuries and selections, and the heavyweight midfield battles that will decide it all. Plus, Snoop Dogg headlines the entertainment, the weather watch, and of course, their tips for the premiership and Norm Smith Medal. Watch this episode now on Facebook and YouTube, or tune in via all podcast platforms.

It’s the best fortnight in footy! Sam and Michael wrap up the semi-finals. Hawthorn stunning Adelaide and Brisbane steadying against the Suns before diving into two massive prelims at the ‘G. Can Geelong hold off the surging Hawks in a classic rivalry, and will Collingwood or Brisbane book their spot in another Grand Final? Plus, State of Origin’s AFL return, Melbourne’s new coach Stephen King, and early Brownlow predictions.

After 15 months abroad—and nine months of creating Moment Maker’s Daily vlogs—Michael Serpell has officially returned home to Australia, reunited with family and friends. From mentoring creatives and co-teaching documentary programs in Guatemala and Mexico, to rediscovering the importance of rest, recovery, and family connection, this vlog captures this powerful transition and all the life-changing realisations along the way. 

Michael shares how his time abroad shaped his understanding of purpose, storytelling, and social impact. He opens up about the lessons learned from authenticity, the cultural insights gained in North and Central America, and the joy of standing alongside filmmakers as they premiered their documentary stories to the local community.

As he settles back home, Michael looks ahead with gratitude and excitement —continuing to tell stories that matter, building community through creativity, and inspiring others to embrace their own journey of authenticity.

Week One flipped the script: Collingwood silenced Adelaide at Adelaide Oval, Geelong outclassed Brisbane at the MCG, Hawthorn dumped GWS, and the Suns won their first-ever final by a point in Perth — thank you, David Swallow. Sam and Michael own their horror tipping, then preview the semi-finals: Crows v Hawks back at Adelaide Oval and a historic Q-Clash at the Gabba (Lions v Suns). Stakes, selection whispers, and who books an MCG prelim next week.

In this travel vlog episode of In The Ball Park, Michael shares his whirlwind journey through Central America after spending 13 months in the United States. Taking a leap of faith, he set out to explore Mexico, never expecting the incredible opportunities that would come his way. Within days, Michael was invited to teach visual storytelling at Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, and soon after, was named the Program Supervisor for Actuality Abroad's Documentary Outreach Program in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

From colourful festivals and ancient Mayan ruins to vibrant street markets and traditional cuisines, Michael recounts the rich cultural landscapes that left a lasting impression on him during his travels. More than the sights, it was the warmth of the people and the stories they shared with him that truly shaped his path as a social impact storyteller in this period of time. 

This episode was recorded on June 28, at the very start of his teaching in Guatemala, this episode captures his gratitude for being able to pass on his knowledge and passion for storytelling to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and journalists. We hope you enjoy this glimpse into Michael's Central American journey—muchas gracias.