The Incredible Machines

Welcome to Episode 24 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Mpume Zwane Langa, a transformation champion, former Unilever finance executive, TEDx speaker, and resilient entrepreneur who’s lived many lives in one. Mpume shares her story of growing up in Umlazi, raised by a strong single mother, selling sweets and homemade ice lollies by age five to pay for her bus coupon. Her journey spans banking, beauty pageants, modeling, motherhood, boardrooms, and homeschooling. She speaks candidly about resisting labels, finding her freedom, raising kids as mirrors, and designing life on her own terms. If you’ve ever questioned the systems around you or the roles you’ve inherited, this episode will inspire you to unlearn, reimagine, and start again. Mpume reminds us: we don’t live our own lives, we live the lives of those before us until we choose differently. ⏱ Timestamped Overview 00:52 – Introduction and what Mpume would tell her 16-year-old self during apartheid 01:22 – Growing up in KwaMashu and lessons from her powerful single mother. 04:24 – Getting her first job with one of SA’s first black IT entrepreneur 06:52 – Unexpected entry into a beauty pageant: modelling as a mindset shift 08:15 – Why Mpume refused to be a bank teller and negotiated her path 11:36 – Discovering her leadership style and values in corporate 13:07 – Selling sweets and inventing her own creamy ice lollies at age 6 17:28 – Lessons in early marketing: branding, innovation, and packaging 20:00 – Gender, labels, and choosing to live many lives 21:37 – Dealing with toxic management, racism, and rising through private banking 26:06 – Power of personal branding: how a car and suit built trust 28:16 – Authenticity, leaving corporate, and defining success 34:55 – Building workplace environments that support women 38:33 – The sacred mirror of parenting and what kids teach us 44:58 – Transition to entrepreneurship: from Unilever financial director to her own boss 49:41 – Homeschooling and redefining education on her terms 53:27 – Learning through travel: why she fell in love with Asia 56:44 – Childhood inspiration: Peter Stuyvesant ads and the power of escapism 01:01:30 – Curiosity, innovation, and evolving past failure 01:05:43 – Mpume’s personal mantra and love for life 01:09:38 – Who are Mpume’s Incredible Machines? Quote of the Episode “Life is beautiful. Reach deeper into it and remain curious.” – Mpume Zwane Langa Related Campaign Example Peter Stuyvesant’s Travel-Driven Cigarette Campaigns — Though controversial now, Mpume credits these radio spots for sparking her desire to explore the world and broaden her reality. The ad created a sense of limitless possibility and remains a nostalgic case study in storytelling and escapism. Peter Stuyvesant’s Travel-Driven Cigarette Campaigns: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIp1FE41tpE 👣 Relevant Links LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/mpume-zwane-langa-798a2535 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpumezl/ 🌐 Connect with Tim Africa. 🔗 Website: https://www.tim.africa 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica 🎧 Podcast Page: https://www.pod.tim.africa

In this engaging conversation, Travis Gale, a South African endurance athlete and author, shares his inspiring journey from cycling around the world at 18 to raise funds for children affected by HIV/AIDS. He discusses the profound lessons learned from struggling with public speaking and the emotional weight of pivotal moments, particularly 'Day Five' of his journey. Travis emphasizes the beauty of transformation in the messy middle of endeavors and encourages embracing resilience and purpose in overcoming life's challenges.

🎙️ The Incredible Machines Podcast – Episode 22: Thobani Ndlovu  Leading Through Curiosity  Welcome to Episode 22 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Thobani Ndlovu, an architect, author, and TEDx Durban curator, for a deep conversation on creativity, personal growth, and building platforms for transformation. Thobani shares his unconventional journey into architecture, how feeding the homeless led to a discovery of his voice, and the behind-the-scenes reality of bringing TEDx to Durban. Through themes of curiosity, community, and the courage to challenge personal limits, Thobani offers listeners a refreshing reminder: you don’t have to fit in a box; you can build your own.  Thobani Ndlovu is a South African architect, TEDx Durban curator, entrepreneur, and author of Leading Through the Mirror. A passionate advocate for personal leadership, he has built platforms that empower voices, inspire change, and encourage introspection. Thobani is also the co-founder of the nonprofit Legacy Creators and a speaker devoted to conversations that matter.  Through themes of curiosity, community, and the courage to challenge personal limits.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview  00:00- Introduction  01:00 – The power of curiosity & starting TEDx Durban   03:00 – Growing up between Greytown and Pietermaritzburg   06:00 – Struggles fitting in at school and varsity  10:00 – Discovering architecture by accident   13:00 – The creative vs. practical tension in architectural work  18:00 – Sports, failure, and resilience as life lessons  21:00 – Close-knit family and growing up with a single mother  26:00 – Volunteering, feeding the homeless & discovering his voice  30:00 – Writing ‘Leading Through the Mirror’ and founding TEDx Durban  36:00 – Building TEDx Durban: challenges, breakthroughs, and purpose  41:00 – The behind-the-scenes work no one sees  44:00 – Trip to TEDx London & international inspiration  58:00 – Learning from failure & embracing public platforms  01:03:00 – Why curiosity matters more than comfort     💬 Quote of the Episode  "We suffer more in imagination than in reality." - Seneca    🧠 Related Campaign Example   Thobani admires how this cinematic campaign used cultural symbolism and national pride to unite South Africans around a shared identity. It sparked his early understanding of representation, legacy, and the power of sport as a narrative tool.    Sasol Spingboks Ad: https://youtu.be/G_kThmkABac        👣 Relevant Links    TEDx Durban Website: https://tedxdurban.org/  TEDx Durban Profile: https://www.ted.com/profiles/11198205    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thobanindlovu_/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThobaniNdlovuPage   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thobani-ndlovu-4a5563190/   Book: Leading Through the Mirror by Thobani Ndlovu      🌐 Connect with Tim Africa  🔗 Website: https://www.tim.africa  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa  📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica  🎧 Podcast Page: https://www.pod.tim.africa 

Welcome to Episode 20 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Muhammad Seedat, an entrepreneur, media executive, and community leader. From selling chips in school to chairing the board of Hilaal TV, Muhammad’s story is one of hustle, resilience, and hard-earned wisdom.   Being a Durban-born entrepreneur with a career spanning accounting, consulting, media, and sports administration. He opens up about building businesses, navigating cultural and personal challenges, and the importance of slowing down to think.  He is the co-founder and board chair of Hilaal TV, former CEO of the Dolphins cricket franchise, and a seasoned leader in the professional services sector. Known for his strategic thinking, integrity, and ability to drive change, Muhammad’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by both high-impact wins and deeply reflective moments.  This episode is a must-listen for an insight into entrepreneurship, leadership, and anyone in pursuit of a meaningful life.    ⏱ Timestamped Overview  00:00- Introduction  01:00 – What Muhammad would tell his younger self  05:00 – Community, identity, and choosing to stay in Durban   10:00 – Selling sweets & tickets at school: early entrepreneurship   13:00 – Parental influence & entrepreneurial independence   16:00 – Sourcing stock and learning simple business logic  22:00 – Getting married at 19 and juggling work, study & business  30:00 – Moving to the UK: working as a financial analyst   35:00 – Living through the 2008 UK financial crash   58:00 – Secret second marriage: navigating the emotional toll   01:02:00 – Trauma, criticism, and finding inner strength   01:10:00 – Building Hilaal TV: how it started in crisis  01:32:00 – EO Learning Chair: planning, energy & diverse offerings        💬 Quote of the Episode  “Doing nothing is underrated. It gives you the space to think, and that’s when breakthroughs happen.” – Muhammad Seedat    🧠 Related Campaign Example   Nando’s provocative billboard campaigns — Muhammad loves their use of cultural relevance and “brand bravery.”    Nando's TV Commercials: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg-UXGhfC4Wk6PRAsZsqbp4Jis4xaJlhR&si=H-nHkqRU-O3FJ5l-        👣 Relevant Links  Hilaal TV: https://hilaal.tv/   Entrepreneur’s Organization: https://eonetwork.org/   🌐 Connect with Tim Africa  🔗 Website: https://www.tim.africa  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa  📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica  🎧 Podcast Page: https://www.pod.tim.africa 

Welcome to Episode 20 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Trevor Steyn, the founder of Esse Skincare, a pioneer of probiotic science in personal care and a vocal advocate for ethical, purpose-led business.  Trevor’s story is one of curiosity, conviction, and courage. With a background in chemistry and a passion for nature, Trevor shares how his scientific mindset collided with corporate disillusionment—and sparked the beginnings of a brand that would reshape the skincare industry.  From refusing to “build to sell” to pushing back against extractive capitalism, Trevor unpacks his long-term vision for a regenerative economy. He challenges mainstream definitions of success, urges entrepreneurs to stop designing for exit, and shares the power of slowing down, thinking differently, and building from a place of intention.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in ethical entrepreneurship, sustainability, and what it means to build a business that matters—for the long haul.  💬 Quote of the Episode: “If you design a business to sell it, it’s going to be extractive.” – Trevor Steyn  🧠 Related Campaign Example   “Be a Force for Nature” – Patagonia (ad linking environmental action with product): https://youtu.be/UAZ8Ts9CC6I?si=ii4sIELUig0mThOs  👣 Relevant Links  🔗 Trevor Steyn on LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-steyn-04646126/   🌱 Esse Skincare:   https://www.esseskincare.com  🧪 Esse on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/esseskincare_/   Send us a text www.tim.africa Podcast Services for Tim (The Incredible Machine) Podcast: https://www.pod.tim.africa/ Instagram: @tim.africa FB: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tim-africa YouTube: The Incredible Machine Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Welcome to another episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this inspiring conversation, Jon Oliff sits down with Debra Clelland, CEO of Deaf Kids International and a powerhouse of perseverance, humility, and vision. From her early days growing up in South Africa and battling feelings of uncertainty, to years spent navigating the high-pressure world of investment banking in London, Debra opens up about the pivotal moments and life lessons that shaped her incredible journey.  Debra shares moving stories of adventure, near-disaster, and profound self-discovery from her travels around the world, and speaks honestly about her experiences with impostor syndrome—even at the pinnacle of her corporate career. She takes us through the transformative chapter of becoming a parent, the challenges and gifts of raising a deaf child, and how personal adversity became the fuel for passion-driven advocacy.  This episode is a deep dive into the magic that happens when we step outside our comfort zones, trust the process, and choose courage in the moments that count. Whether you’re looking for insight on building resilience, creating meaningful change, or just a dose of human inspiration, this conversation with Debra Clelland is not to be missed.  Timestamped Overview:  00:00 Reflecting on Teenage Choices  09:13 Crawling to Captain's Assurance  15:31 Creativity Sparked by Movement  19:22 Financial Data Analysis Challenges  22:11 "15-Year Imposter Syndrome Journey"  27:38 Pushing Limits in Marathon Training  36:11 Building Self-Worth for Success  40:34 Execution Over Strategy  44:02 Finding Courage Through Partnerships  51:19 Perception is Personal  57:31 "Deaf Children Safeguarding Mission"  01:01:59 "Deaf Kids' Global Authentic Impact"  01:07:30 Teaching Safety Awareness to Children  01:08:52 Children's Safety and Rights Advocacy  01:17:52 "Unwavering Support with Boundaries"  01:22:37 "Creating Safe Spaces for Disclosure"  01:27:47 Discomfort and Consistency Drive Success  Quote:  "There are times when life offers you a square centimeter of chance, and if you have the courage at that moment to grasp that square centimeter, your life will be changed in an instant.” - Unknown  Advertising Campaign:  “Beat The Bends” by BMW: https://youtu.be/cwPrlsJYwKY  👣 Relevant Links  Debra Clelland:    Deaf Kidz International: https://deafkidzinternational.org/our-people/   Thrive: https://www.thrivesa.org.za/how-to-get-in-touch/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-clelland-54279b1a/   Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/safeonline/53851452263   Send us a text www.tim.africa Podcast Services for Tim (The Incredible Machine) Podcast: https://www.pod.tim.africa/ Instagram: @tim.africa FB: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tim-africa YouTube: The Incredible Machine Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

In Episode 18 of The Incredible Machines Podcast, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with legendary entrepreneur, speaker, author, and provocateur, Richard Mulholland—the mind behind Missing Link, 21 Tanks, and Too Many Robots—for a deep-dive into creativity, courage, and the art (and science) of relentless reinvention.  From his Glasgow roots and punk rock beginnings to making CEOs into rockstars and transforming the business of presentations, Richard unpacks the journey that’s made him one of South Africa’s most sought-after thinkers and doers. Get ready for radically honest wisdom on humility (and healthy arrogance), why strategy is broken, the power of delusional self-belief, and how to actually make an impact in a world saturated with noise.  🔗 If you’re obsessed with innovation, storytelling, impact—or just want to learn from someone who’s made a career out of challenging the status quo—hit play now!  🔴 In This Episode:  Turning stream of consciousness into bestselling books  The truth about humility, arrogance, and finding your "zone of potential"  Why most strategies fail (and what to do instead)  The “pain, pill, and peanut butter” formula for powerful storytelling  How to prepare for the AI revolution (without losing your mind)  Lessons from a life spent pitching, speaking, and pushing boundaries …and so much more.  Quote:  Duke Ellington: “I don't need time, I need a deadline.”  Advertising Campaign: Famous Roto-Rooter jingle: “When your drain is being naughty, call 011 444 4040 “ (https://rotorooter.co.za/about-us)  Relevant Links:  Richard Mulholland:    Website: https://www.richmulholland.com/   Businesses  Missing Link: https://msnglnk.com/   21 Tanks: https://21tanks.com/   Too Many Robots: tmr.wtf  Books: Legacide: https://www.amazon.com/Legacide-legacy-thinking-silent-innovation-ebook/dp/B06XDQY1MC?tag=msnglnk-20&geniuslink=true   Boredom Slayer: https://www.amazon.com/Boredom-Slayer-speakers-guide-presenting-ebook/dp/B07LBYSQB9?tag=msnglnk-20&geniuslink=true  Here Be Dragons: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MMBVRYQ?tag=msnglnk-20&ref_=pe_3052080_276849420&geniuslink=true  Relentless Relevance Send us a text www.tim.africa Podcast Services for Tim (The Incredible Machine) Podcast: https://www.pod.tim.africa/ Instagram: @tim.africa FB: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tim-africa YouTube: The Incredible Machine Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

In Episode 17 of The Incredible Machines Podcast, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Gordon Reid—financial advisor, philanthropist, and multi-discipline endurance athlete—for a high-energy, heart-led conversation on grit, giving, and growth.  From 16-hour days in retail to grueling army marches, to building a print business and pivoting into finance during COVID, Gordon shares how he’s embraced every challenge with humor, heart, and humility. But it’s his work in endurance sports and philanthropy—raising millions for childhood cancer and conservation—that reveals the depth of his impact.  This episode is a celebration of what it means to live a big life: showing up, pushing limits, serving others, and doing it all with a smile (and sometimes in a cow suit). Whether you’re chasing your next goal or wondering how to give back meaningfully—this one’s for you.  🔗 From comrades to community, fundraising to fatherhood, Gordon’s story is packed with courage, candid moments, and wild inspiration.    🔴 In This Episode:  💬 “You’re never too old for a happy childhood.”  Gordon shares a life philosophy passed down from his father and how it’s shaped his relentless pursuit of joyful living.  💬 How to Turn Challenges into Charity  From Midmar swims to Doozy races, Gordon explains how suffering can be turned into service—and fun.  💬 The ROI of Kindness  Gordon explores how his philanthropic efforts have helped grow a personal and professional network based on trust, impact, and community.  💬 The Business of Becoming  Why changing careers, embracing learning, and reinventing yourself after 40 can be the most rewarding moves you’ll ever make.  💬 Running Toward a Better World  Gordon gives us a behind-the-scenes look at upcoming events like Run for Rangers and how you can join or support.    👣 Relevant Links  🏃‍♂️ Run for Rangers: https://www.runforrangers.org 🦏 Endangered Wildlife Trust: https://www.ewt.org.za 🤝 BNI Rainmakers Chapter: https://www.bni.co.za 🐄 CHOC / The Cows Charity: https://www.thecows.co.za   Jesse Itzler (All Day Running): https://www.alldayrunningco.com   Gordon Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordsreid/  | https://www.instagram.com/luckygordy_/   https://www.fgro.co.za/gordon-reid/   Send us a text www.tim.africa Podcast Services for Tim (The Incredible Machine) Podcast: https://www.pod.tim.africa/ Instagram: @tim.africa FB: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tim-africa YouTube: The Incredible Machine Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast!  In Episode 16, we sit down with Cindy Norcott — entrepreneur, motivational speaker, non-profit founder, and the definition of unstoppable.  As the founder of Pro Talent, author of How to Be Unstoppable, and visionary behind the Robin Hood Foundation, Cindy shares her extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to becoming a force for change in both business and community.  This episode is about more than success — it’s about resilience, generosity, and building a life of purpose while helping others do the same. From tough lessons in leadership to radically showing up for your community, Cindy’s story is packed with heart, humour, and hard-won wisdom.  🎥 We also break down Cindy’s featured TV ad campaign – watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rymT28Z6KQY  🔗 Whether you're building a business, a legacy, or simply trying to find your fire — this episode is for you.    📢 Listen or Watch Now:  🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2szkubBcGSZSXgOf6R9eyj 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-incredible-machines-podcast/id1773774185 🔊 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/14f52da3-2fe9-4a78-a193-51479788343f 🌍 Podcast Website: https://www.pod.tim.africa    🔴 In This Episode:  💬 On Building a Legacy Through Action  Cindy shares how small consistent actions and a clear sense of purpose helped her build not just a successful business, but a thriving non-profit.  💬 Why Balance is a Myth Instead of chasing balance, Cindy embraces blending — a more realistic and human way of showing up in every area of life.  💬 The Power of Self-Reflection and Routine  From 5am mornings to journaling and mentoring others, Cindy opens up about how intentionality helps her maintain clarity and momentum.  💬 Turning Adversity into Impact  With radical honesty, Cindy talks about failures, imposter syndrome, and the moments she almost gave up — and why she didn’t.  💬 Real Leadership is Generous  Her leadership philosophy is clear: build people, serve others, and lead from love.    👥 Connect with Cindy Norcott:  🌐 Website: https://cindynorcott.co.za/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindy.norcott/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindynorcott/ 📘 Facebook: http Send us a text www.tim.africa Podcast Services for Tim (The Incredible Machine) Podcast: https://www.pod.tim.africa/ Instagram: @tim.africa FB: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tim-africa YouTube: The Incredible Machine Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

In Episode 15 of The Incredible Machines Podcast, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Dr Pepe Marais—co-founder of Joe Public and South African thought leader on conscious leadership—for a profound conversation on purpose, personal transformation, and the creative power of business.  From near-death experiences to overcoming social phobia, and from launching one of South Africa’s most iconic agencies to shaping education and societal impact, Pepe’s journey is as raw and real as it is inspiring.  This episode dives deep into the inner work behind outer success—exploring identity, ego, trauma, entrepreneurship, and how businesses can (and should) be vehicles for meaningful change.  🔗 Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative, or just someone looking to live and lead with more purpose—this is a must-listen.    📚 Timestamped Overview  00:00 – Introduction: The birth of an incredible machine  06:00 – Death, rebirth, and a business partnership saved by fate  ️12:30 – Social phobia, authenticity, and the path to public speaking  18:00 – Growing Greatness: The book and its personal roots  26:45 – Why business is the second most creative act (after children)  35:00 – The education crisis in South Africa and systemic failure  43:00 – The power of entrepreneurial learning and cellular experience  51:00 – Diversity, purpose, and the unseen forces that shape us  1:00:00 – Conscious capitalism: Why business needs soul  1:10:00 – Testing for consciousness and the Dana Kruger effect  1:25:00 – Building a purpose for South Africa    🔴 In This Episode:  💬 "The Worst Thing Is the Best Thing"  Pepe explains how life’s greatest challenges—from trauma to heartbreak—have become his biggest sources of growth.  💬 The Power of Purpose in Business  Discover why Pepe believes the success of Joe Public was fueled not by chasing money, but by aligning with purpose.  💬 Education as Economic Liberation  Why fixing South Africa’s education system is critical to national transformation—and why he's shifted focus from schooling to leadership.  💬 From Social Phobia to TEDx  Hear how Pepe overcame debilitating anxiety to become a powerful speaker, author, and changemaker.  💬 The Creative Force of Entrepreneurship  Starting a business isn’t just economic—Pepe calls it one of the most spiritual and creative acts available to humans.    Relevant Links:  The Egg - A Short Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6fcK_fRYaI&t=2s  Joe Public Website: https://joepublic.co.za/   Dr Pepe Marais: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-pepe-marais-ba142811?originalSubdomain=za   🌐 Connect with Us:  🌍 Website: Send us a text www.tim.africa Podcast Services for Tim (The Incredible Machine) Podcast: https://www.pod.tim.africa/ Instagram: @tim.africa FB: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tim-africa YouTube: The Incredible Machine Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!