Welcome to Episode 36 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Laiela Dorasamy, the director of Ahavah Corporate Gifts & Uniforms, a mental health advocate and a transformational coach. We delve into themes of authenticity, emotional healing, faith, and personal growth.  
Laiela speaks about her journey through family trauma, supporting her daughter through anorexia, and discovering spiritual strength by embracing vulnerability and connection. Explore the significance of genuine relationships, self-compassion, and the power of community support in the healing process. The discussion also touches on the influence of digital culture, AI, and societal pressures on mental health, ultimately underscoring that true belonging and transformation arise from embracing one’s story and choosing growth, love, and faith over fear and conformity.  
This episode is filled with moving stories, practical insights, and encouragement for anyone seeking deeper connection and personal growth. Whether you’re navigating your own challenges or supporting others, there’s something here for everyone.    ⏱ Timestamped Overview 
00:10 – Introduction, Social Proof and Audience Size 03:58 – Digital Marketing, AI, and Authenticity 07:13 – Belonging vs. Fitting In 10:20 – Advice to Younger Self and Teenage Years 13:47 – Impact of Parents’ Divorce   17:31 – Faith, Purpose, and Accountability 20:33 – Choices, Free Will, and Spiritual Guidance 23:53 – The Importance of Small Things  27:24 – Grief, Loss, and Helping Other 32:00 – Processing Sadness and Mindset 36:28 – Victimhood vs. Strength 38:17 – Transforming Trauma into Purpose 47:25 – Spiritual Warfare and the Armor of God 53:18 – Unanswered Questions and Faith 57:12 – Faith, Trust, and Loss 01:00:01 – Ayahuasca, Spiritual Encounters, and Healing 01:07:23 – Openness to Different Paths 01:15:22 – The Power of Connection and Movement 01:16:35 – Anorexia: Family, Recovery, and Mental Health   01:25:35 – The Turning Point in Recovery 01:31:48 – Incredible Machines: Role Models and Family 01:35:47 – Personal Development and Growth    💬 Quote of the Episode 
“When life happens and you've been through a lot of challenges, you have a choice to either become strong or become the victim.” – Laiela Dorasamy  🧠 Related Campaign Example   Dove’s “The Cost of Beauty” Campaign — Laiela Dorasamy chose this because it resonated with her personal experience supporting her daughter through anorexia, highlighting how toxic beauty content and social media harm young people’s mental health. She admires Dove’s real beauty campaigns for their relevant and authentic approach to these issues. 
 
Dove’s “The Cost of Beauty” Campaign: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3qc6QjfJyc 
    👣 Relevant Links  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laiela/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laielaparuk/  LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/laiela-paruk-dorasamy-28782648   Ahavah Corporate Gifts Website: https://ahavahconsulting.co.za/  Ahavah Corporate Gifts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AhavahCorporateGifts/  Ahavah Corporate Gifts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahavahconsulting/  Ahavah Corporate Gifts LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/company/ahavahconsulting    🌐 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 35 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Jeff Dean Hubbard, a professional bodyboarder and entrepreneur from Hawaii. We discuss Jeff’s journey from his early days on Kauai to becoming a world champion and co-founding Hub Boards with his brother Dave.  
He shares insights on bodyboarding culture, product innovation, and the challenges of running a specialized sports brand. The conversation covers community traditions, the cyclical nature of the sport, and balancing family life with business. Jeff’s reflections highlight the importance of passion, resilience, and staying connected to both the sport and its evolving community. 
This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and a deep passion for bodyboarding and entrepreneurship. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just curious about the sport, there's something here for everyone.    ⏱ Timestamped Overview 
00:10 – Introduction, Personal Reflections and Advice to Younger Self 02:07 – Family Background and Early Life 03:49 – Discovering Bodyboarding and Early Influences 05:05 – Beginning to Compete and College Years  06:22 – Parents’ Origins and Moving to Oahu 07:16 – No Friends Crew and Community 09:04 – Bodyboarding in South Africa and Global Peak 11:45 – No Friends Videos and Favourite Memories  12:58 – Returning to School and Applying Business Skill 15:13 – Entrepreneurial Ventures Before Hubboards 16:58 – Launching and Running Hubboards 18:04 – Product Range and Design Philosophy 19:42 – Branding and Tagline 20:22 – Recent Achievements and Family Success 24:26 – Personal Brand and Daily Routine 26:20 – Technology and Surf Forecasting Evolution 27:55 – Exercise, Family Life, and Kids 29:07 – Plans and Product Development for 2025  32:45 – Challenges of Manufacturing and Tariffs 34:24 – Managing Product SKUs and Inventory 37:48 – Production and Quality Control 38:14 – Trends, Colours, and Customer Preferences 40:23 – Demographics and the Adult Bodyboarding Boom 43:41 – Why Older Bodyboarders Return  47:11 – Favourite and Heaviest Waves 48:28 – Traditions and Branding in Bodyboarding  51:06 – Jeff Hubbard's Future Plans and Reflections    💬 Quote of the Episode 
“When you love something, but it’s withheld, your passion for it grows.” – Jeff Dean Hubbard  🧠 Related Campaign Example   Corona Lime Ritual TV Commercial — Jeff mentions how the iconic ritual of adding a lime to a Corona wasn’t originally a cultural norm but was created as a “full branding thing,” underscoring the power of simple, memorable brand rituals. 
Corona Lime Ritual TV Commercial: https://youtu.be/YeVW40mftyw?si=OYolX8odKYlkrswj 
   👣 Relevant Links  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100044349105096  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffreydeanhubbard/   Hubboards Website: https://hubboards.com/  Hubboards Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShopHUBBOARDS/  Hubboards Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hubboards/  Hubboards Twitter: https://x.com/hubboards  Hubboards YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzlQPZmqKiWQSHw9FHhX_aw/feed    🌐 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 34 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Judy Le Roux, a resilient mother and lifelong learner whose journey is marked by adaptation and perseverance. Judy speaks about raising her son Michael, who faced significant medical challenges from birth, and how these experiences shaped her outlook on life. She reflects on her childhood, the pivotal moments that led to career changes, and her willingness to embrace new technology and opportunities. 
Throughout the episode, Judy emphasizes the importance of consistency, maintaining a positive mindset, and surrounding oneself with supportive people. She shares how adversity can be a powerful teacher, and how strength is often found in quiet heroes and everyday acts of courage. Together, they explore the value of learning from setbacks, the role of community, and the transformative power of perseverance. 
Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, considering a career pivot, or seeking inspiration to overcome obstacles, this episode distils Judy’s most valuable lessons, each packed with actionable advice and interesting perspectives for anyone striving to turn adversity into triumph. ⏱ Timestamped Overview 
00:40 – Introductions, Early Tech and Mindset 02:02 – Mindset and Life Choices 04:53 – Judy’s Childhood and Family Values 07:25 – Michael’s Birth and Early Medical Challenges 08:39 – Medical Journey: Eyes, Legs, and Resilience 11:43 – Turning Point and Choosing to Fight 12:52 – Relentless Search for Solution 14:54 – First Major Surgery and Hope 17:01 – Ongoing Operations and Development 19:27 – School Challenges and Small Victories 21:38 – Resilience in the Face of Setbacks  24:50 – Sales Career and Lessons from Adversity 27:10 – Early Career with a Sandwich Business 32:36 – Family, Culture, and Hiring Philosophy 35:39 – Confidence vs. Arrogance 37:37 – Dealing with Haters and Protecting Your Story 39:50 – Facts Over Emotion and Mentoring Others 44:32 – Resilience Defined and Michael’s Achievement 49:39 – Consistency as a Life Principle  51:20 – Incredible Machines and Inspirations  54:05 – Legacy and Words to Her Son Michael 💬 Quote of the Episode 
“No matter what anybody says, don’t give up because it’s your choice and you are in control of your mind.” – Judy Le Roux 🧠 Related Campaign Example   Forest 5000 “Consistency” TV Commercial — Judy loves the ad’s message that “consistency is the only currency that matters” and relates it to her own life: building success one day at a time, even against the odds, is like growing a forest from single seeds. She chose this campaign to highlight how persistence and small daily efforts accumulate into something extraordinary. 
Forest 5000 “Consistency” TV Commercial: https://youtu.be/PinzhCzt6Zo 👣 Relevant Links  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judy-le-roux-mba-a4097994/  Facebook: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judy-le-roux-mba-a4097994/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rjudyle/     🌐 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 33 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Mzokhona Gumede, a radio presenter who grew up on a farm in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, in a polygamous family. He shares his challenging upbringing, early fascination with radio, and determination to escape rural life.  
Through perseverance, Mzokhona built a successful radio career, growing audiences and embracing both traditional and digital media. In this conversation we explore the evolution of radio, the importance of community, and the role of women in personal and professional life, offering insights and advice for aspiring broadcasters in today’s changing media landscape. 
Whether you’re an aspiring broadcaster, a podcaster, or simply passionate about media, this episode distils the most valuable lessons each packed with actionable advice and nuanced perspectives. ⏱ Timestamped Overview 
00:40 – Introduction 01:04 – Family Struggles and Hard Work 03:16 – Dreams of Radio 03:54 – Siblings and Family Structure  04:26 – Pursuing Radio in Durban 05:22 – Love for Radio 07:32 – Radio as Escape and Inspiration 09:19 – Favourite Radio Presenters  09:48 – Radio’s Commercialization & Learning 12:09 – Writing a Book and Storytelling 14:20 – Processing the Past   16:00 – Reflections on Polygamy and Family Support 17:34 – Proving Oneself and Finding Community 18:44 – Early Radio Career Challenges 22:14 – Breakthroughs and Career Growth   24:04 – Measuring Radio Success 25:15 – Building a Personal Brand 27:16 – Impact of Social Media 28:38 – Radio vs. Digital Competition   38:18 – Intuition and Target Audience  41:26 – Responsibility and Content Choices 45:06 – Advice for Aspiring Radio Presenters   47:29 – The Future of Radio and Digital   49:17 – Visual Trends in Podcasting 01:00:35 – Changing Family Dynamics   01:05:40 – Advertising and Audio Branding 01:11:44 – Trying New Things and Embracing Failure   01:15:58 – Women as ‘Incredible Machines’   💬 Quote of the Episode 
“Radio made me believe there was something bigger out there.” – Mzokhona Gumede🧠 Related Campaign Example  Kulula’s “Jetsetter” TV Campaign — Mzokhona Gumede relates to its simple, straightforward messaging and how it uses humor and relatability to convey the benefits of the airline’s rewards program. He appreciates the ad’s choice to feature an ordinary person as the central character, making the rewards feel accessible and memorable. 
Kulula’s “Jetsetter” TV Campaign: kulula Jetsetter TV - new groupie ad - YouTube 
👣 Relevant Links  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mzokhona-gumede-84510532/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mzokhona.gumed  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mzokoloko/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJfzOm0ejxRY5XMYlYlpT8g    🌐 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 32 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with JX Gumede, shares his life journey from rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, through educational hardships, family struggles, and transformative experiences in Germany.  
JX Gumede and Jon Oliff discuss how AI and technology can either perpetuate or help solve societal issues, emphasizing the need for conscious values. The conversation explores resilience, the importance of recognizing life’s seasons, and the impact of caring versus indifference, especially regarding food waste, malnutrition, and economic disparity.  
This episode is packed with personal stories, thought-provoking discussions, and practical insights. Whether you’re interested in personal growth, the impact of AI, or societal issues, there’s something here for you. Plus, it’s a chance to reflect on your own life journey and the influences that have shaped you.   ⏱ Timestamped Overview 
01:00 – Explaining the Ego Tool 02:03 – AI Life Projection Exercise  04:45 – JX Gumede’s Early Life in KZN   05:39 – Learning English at a Multiracial School 08:47 – Boarding School Experiences 11:26 – Transition to Elite Schools 13:59 – Mother’s Influence and Resilience  15:07 – Reflections on Education and AI 18:26 – Family Financial Hardship and Recovery 22:27 – Scholarship to Study in Germany 24:10 – Experiences in Germany 27:44 – Father’s Legacy and Family Business 32:29 – Mother’s Ambition and Lifelong Learning 38:08 – Mother’s Strategic Thinking and Faith 40:29 – Lessons from Hardship and Humility 43:45 – Advice to Younger Self   45:52 – “Fight the Enemy You Have” Philosophy   53:19 – Awareness, Acceptance, Action Framework 55:21 – The Value of Presence – “Time Flies” Ad   01:01:24 – Reflections on Time and Presence 01:04:03 – AI, Language, and Bias 01:06:07 – Indifference vs. Hate in Society and AI 01:11:33 – Food Waste and Food Justice 01:16:39 – Understanding Food Expiry Labels 01:30:10 – Food Security and Malnutrition in South Africa 01:34:00 – AI, Food Identity, and Values 01:43:38 – AI as a Force Multiplier for Good or Bad    💬 Quote of the Episode 
“If something bad can happen to you for no reason, then something good can happen to you for no reason.” – JX Gumede  🧠 Related Campaign Example   "Time Flies" TV Commercial — Chosen for its powerful message about being present and appreciating the experiences in each stage of life, rather than always projecting into the future. JX Gumede relates deeply to its theme of recognizing the season you are in, as the ad’s mother learns to embrace the moment with her child instead of wishing time away. 
"Time Flies" TV Commercial: Allan Gray: Award winning Ad 2007    👣 Relevant Links  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jxgumede/  Twitter: https://x.com/jxbgumede  Biography: https://jxgumede.bio/   JX & Co Website: https://jxandcompany.com/  JX & Co LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jxandcompany/     🌐 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 31 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Wendy Mahoney, is a founder of Newmella & Associates, speaker, leader, and an advocate for human flourishing and speaks about life’s ultimate lesson: “You are enough.”   She shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting themes of self-worth, burnout, and resilience. Wendy recounts her early career in media, her struggles with burnout, and her path to healing through therapy and alternative modalities. Wendy discusses the ongoing journey toward wholeness, inspiring listeners with her candid reflections on overcoming challenges and embracing one’s true self. 
The conversation explores authenticity, the importance of boundaries, and conscious capitalism.  ⏱ Timestamped Overview 
00:40 – Introduction and Wendy’s message to her 16-year-old self. 01:09 – Schooling in Durban, university studies, and first steps into media and radio.  02:55 – Early 20s working in Europe, learning resilience, and developing sales and management skills. 10:38 – First experience with burnout, its symptoms, and the importance of rest and self-care.   14:09 – Languages spoken, relationship with her parents, and how family dynamics shaped her drive. 18:12 – Exploration of burnout as a recurring theme, the phoenix metaphor, and learning to set boundaries. 23:21 – Her current strategies for maintaining work-life balance and prioritizing well-being.   29:49 – Her rise in corporate media, the onset of her second burnout, and the role of medication. 36:02 – Becoming Chief Revenue Officer, the pressures of the role, and her third, more physical, burnout.  40:00 – Her hospitalization, ignoring burnout symptoms, and the need for inner work. 46:32 – Midlife crisis, leaving corporate roles, personal lows, and the journey into self-discovery. 50:09 – Use of therapy, NLP, and somatic work for healing. 52:09 – Experiences with ayahuasca, heartbreak, and the transformative power of plant medicine. 57:10 – Importance of somatic healing, breathwork, and non-plant-based methods for nervous system regulation. 01:00:36 – Apple’s “Mother Nature” campaign, praising its creativity, humor, and subtle branding. 01:05:02 – Naming kindness and good-hearted people as her inspiration, emphasizing the value of everyday goodness.   
💬 Quote of the Episode 
“The privilege of a lifetime is to be who you truly are.” – Wendy Mahoney 
 
🧠 Related Campaign Example  Apple’s “Mother Nature” campaign — Wendy admires how Apple turned a dry topic like their integrated sustainability report into a creative, humorous, and refreshingly authentic piece, with Tim Cook’s earnest performance standing out. She appreciates its clever, subtle branding that communicates Apple’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030, while championing conscious capitalism and environmental impact without overtly selling.
 
👣 Relevant Links  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-mahoney-macbl-223b6144/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendy.mahoney.276663  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendyleamahoney/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLkwurI72lqpE77gh6ZCsbg   Newmella & Associates Website: https://newmella.co.za/  Newmella & Associates LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/newmella-holdings-pty-ltd/  Newmella & Associates Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newmella/  Newmella & Associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newmella_holdings/  Newmella & Associates X: https://x.com/NeWMella_    🌐 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 30 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Nelisiwe Zuma, a dynamic voice in social media and influencer marketing whose journey began in rural South Africa. She shares how her early life experiences, family values, and community shaped her approach to personal and professional growth. Nelisiwe discusses her transformative journey following a traumatic car accident in 2016, which became a pivotal moment leading to profound resilience, self-discovery, and a renewed sense of purpose. 
Nelisiwe unpacks the challenges of overcoming physical and emotional hurdles, honoring the memory of a lost friend, and the ongoing process of healing. She emphasizes the importance of self-love, faith, and the support of community in navigating life’s adversities. This episode offers valuable insights on gratitude, the power of second chances, and the pursuit of evolving dreams. Engage in a heartfelt conversation about her journey from rural beginnings to a thriving career. Nelisiwe shares how her experiences have shaped her unique spirit, her gratitude for new opportunities, and her vision for the future.   ⏱ Timestamped Overview 00:44 – Introduction of Nelisiwe Zuma 02:03 – Self-Discovery After the Accident 02:20 – Advice to Younger Self and Learning from Others 03:51 – Upbringing and Early Life  05:07 – School Years and Being Different 06:51 – Love for the Outdoors and God 07:39 – Embracing Uniqueness and Self-Definition   08:50 – Experience in Modelling and Modelling School 11:22 – Transition to Agency Life and Social Media 13:01 – Creating the Influencer Marketing Role 13:59 – Effort to Fit In and Stand Out Professionally   15:56 – The Car Accident and the Aftermath 20:33 – Hospitalization, Recovery and Loss 24:31 – Life After Recovery and Sobriety 26:07 – Future Plans and Faith 29:54 – Feelings About the Accident Site 35:25 – Favourite Campaign and Professional Pride 39:07 – Never-Ending Adventure and Self-Discovery 42:51 – Farming Aspirations and Office Support 46:13 – Overcoming Dark Times and Asking for Help 49:22 – Self-Love and Setting Boundaries 01:00:15 – Recent Life Changes and Embracing Rest    💬 Quote of the Episode 
“You need to be different; either you define yourself or the world will define you.” – Nelisiwe Zuma 
🧠 Related Campaign Example  Vaseline Glow Product Launch campaign — Nelisiwe chose this campaign because she was deeply involved from the teaser phase through to the launch, handling teaser content strategy, amplification plans, reporting, and live behind-the-scenes coverage for social media. She poured her creativity and hard work into the project, feeling a strong sense of pride in introducing something new to the South African market that reflected her own journey of standing out and defining herself.    👣 Relevant Links  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelisiwe-zuma-54138b104/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neli.zuma.946  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neli_zuma/     🌐 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 29 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with the incredible David Pugh, an innovative business leader who began his entrepreneurial journey as a schoolboy in Durban. He shares how his early ventures, mentorship experiences, and family influences shaped his approach to business and leadership. He discusses his transition from launching a mutliple brands to spearheading digital engagement at RCL Foods, including the creation of the Wild Space gaming platform. 
David Pugh unpacks the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the importance of decisiveness, and the art of balancing data with intuition. He emphasizes the significance of faith, curiosity, and continuous learning in both personal and professional growth. This episode offers valuable insights on leadership, innovation, and staying true to one’s vision.  
⏱ Timestamped Overview 00:41 – Durban Roots and Early Career 01:03 – Struggles with Traditional Education 01:43 – Mentorship at Johnson Workwear   04:47 – Launching First Business and Corporate Transition 06:28 – Innovation and Gaming at RCL Foods 09:56 – Blending Digital and Physical Engagement   12:48 – Startup Mentality vs. Corporate Structure 15:19 – Entrepreneurial Methodology and Marketing Philosophy  19:01 – Family Background and Early Entrepreneurship 21:25 – Challenging Rules and Entrepreneurial Traits 23:04 – Liquid Death and Brand Innovation 25:59 – U Conscientiousness, Urgency, and Acting on Ideas 31:13 – You Create: The Innovation Hub 35:57 – Data, Gut Feel, and Decision-Making 42:34 – Feedback Loops and Repeat Purchase 45:14 – Corporate Scale vs. Entrepreneurial Kickstart 48:41 – Red Team, Blue Team, and Disruption 53:33 – Advice to Younger Self and Curiosity 54:51 – Spiritual Intelligence and Decision-Making    💬 Quote of the Episode “Decide. Act. Change direction. Drop it. Move on to something else.” – David Pugh 
🧠 Related Campaign Example  Liquid Death’s “Murder Your Thirst” campaign — David admires how it disrupts traditional water marketing by making water edgy, cool, and appealing to everyone, especially by flipping expected category cues on their head and using bold, entertaining storytelling. 
Liquid Death’s “Murder Your Thirst” campaign: https://youtu.be/EeRADNpdKD4?si=_2lM8xCqRsC1uiaP 
 
👣 Relevant Links  LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/david-pugh-34883b5 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.pugh.1238/ Wet GLOAT Website: https://www.wetgloatwater.com/Wet GLOAT Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574930289410 Wet GLOAT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wetgloat/
Grootman Energy Website: https://grootmanenergy.com/Grootman Energy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577057213625Grootman Energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grootmanenergy/
 
🌐 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 28 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Preeya Daya, an academic and coach who grew up in apartheid South Africa. Preeya shares how her diverse schooling, family values, and experiences shaped her passion for diversity, inclusion, and personal growth. 
She discusses overcoming feelings of inadequacy, the importance of self-love, and the concept of being “unleashed” from social constraints. The conversation covers parenting, privilege, trauma, and the value of service. This episode reflects on education, identity, and finding authenticity. Preeya emphasizes kindness, community, and embracing one’s worth as keys to empowerment and meaningful change.   ⏱ Timestamped Overview 
00:40 – Message to My 16-Year-Old Self  01:36 – Childhood and Family Background  02:19 – Early Schooling and Diversity 03:22 – Transition to High School and Apartheid Realities  05:30 – Family Values and Work Ethic  07:52 – Parents’ Professions and Sacrifices  09:42 – The Value of Small Acts and Quality Time  12:42 – Service and Selflessness  14:30 – Powerful Female Role Models and Multiracial Love  16:28 – Schooling Environments and Identity  16:55 – Teachers, Race, and Educational Technology  18:02 – Teachers, Race, and Educational Technology 21:43 – Unleashing Potential and Social Constructs  23:34 – Academic Journey and Lifelong Learning 27:09 – Travel, Trekking, and Spiritual Experiences 29:04 – The Value of Silence and Nature 32:05 – Contrasts in Socialization and Noise  33:46 – Yin and Yang: Balance in Life  34:34 – Meditation and Accessing Inner Peace 36:12 – Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice  38:49 – Self-Love and Societal Messaging 42:19 – Generational Differences and Selfies 42:52 – True Self-Love vs. External Validation 45:31 – Professional Lessons: Kindness and Empathy 48:55 – Cultural Patterns and Inclusion  54:50 – Privilege, Trauma, and Identity  56:52 – Authenticity in the Workplace  01:00:17 – Discussion of a Social Justice Advertisement  01:05:22 – Unconscious Bias and Socialization      01:07:31 – Family, Community, and Unlimited Relationships  01:08:45 – Cultural Norms and Gender Roles  01:11:06 – Everything Is in Its Perfect Place 01:14:59 – Learning from Every Encounter      💬 Quote of the Episode 
“You are enough, and you are beautiful the way you are.” – Preeya Daya 
🧠 Related Campaign Example  Australian Human Rights Commission campaign — Preeya chose this campaign because it highlights unconscious bias and the ways in which people unknowingly enact prejudice. She values the ad’s message that silence, and inaction can reinforce discrimination, and she is moved by its call to consciously see and challenge these divisions. 
Australian Human Rights Commission campaign: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFTjZilAwhM 
     👣 Relevant Links  LinkedIn: Preeya Daya, PhD - Values 20 South Africa Chair. Championing Inclusive, Values-Based Leadership & Human-Centered Change | LinkedIn Facebook: (6) Facebook   🌐 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 27 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Allon Raiz, a pioneering entrepreneur, mentor, and founder of Raizcorp, Africa’s largest business incubator. From humble beginnings growing up in Durban to orchestrating business transformations across the continent, Allon shares the rollercoaster journey that shaped him into the powerhouse he is today.
Allon Raiz’s academic journey is a story of resilience and reinvention. After struggling through school and just managing to get into university, he completed a four-year BCom and went on to achieve top honours in his class, an impressive turnaround from his earlier academic performance. Motivated to keep studying, Allon even began working on his master's degree and spent some time overseas. Unbeknownst to him, he continued his studies partly to avoid compulsory military service, only to eventually discover that the army draft had ended. This unexpected revelation marked yet another turning point in his unconventional path, shaping the determined and resourceful individual he would become.
In a conversation brimming with candid stories and powerful insights, Allon unpacks the gritty realities of entrepreneurship, touching on everything from his early failures and mentor relationships to the emotional drivers behind ambition and the art of playing the “long game.” The episode dives deep into what makes an “incredible machine,” why true mentorship often comes with a dose of tough love, and the unexpected ways that small gestures can come full circle years later.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business enthusiast, or just curious about what drives remarkable people to keep building, this episode is packed with gems—about resilience, self-awareness, and the value of betting on yourself, even when the odds are against you. Get ready for an honest, inspiring, and at times hilarious exploration of what it takes to walk into a room and leave it truly changed.⏱ Timestamped Overview 
00:39 Introduction: Don King booking story and why Allon is here.08:41 Growing up in a women-led family business shaping his worldview.10:55 From failed shoe voucher promo to PR breakthrough and momentum.19:40 Owning failure and the power of mentorship over people over money.20:40 Compelling economic right to exist before chasing funding.27:27 Including family in entrepreneurship dinner table learning.33:21 Father issues as a driver and reframing imposter syndrome.39:50 Choosing the right mentor and embracing brutal candor.48:05 Say yes to scary things, invitations, and stretch moments. 50:32 Beware the sirens resisting tempting detours.58:08 Reverse mentorship and learning from Gen Z at work.01:00:55 Turning a failed interview into a learning session.01:04:51 The hitchhiker story: serendipity returning years later.01:11:05 Patience's subtle influence and the long game.01:17:00 Incubating crises and becoming a prosperator.01:23:31 Notebooks as an idea engine: think it, write it, make it real.💬 Quote of the Episode
“If you think it, write it down and make it a reality.” – Allon Raiz 🧠 Related Campaign ExampleAllan Gray’s ad campaign — Allon selected this iconic advert about patience, potential, and long-term investing. The campaign highlights Allan Gray’s core message: that real returns come from discipline, foresight, and resisting short-term gratification. This perfectly mirrors Allon’s entrepreneurial philosophy of playing the long game, resisting “sirens” of distraction, and enduring the pain of early struggles to build lasting impact. The campaign is a reminder that in both investing and entrepreneurship, timing, patience, and belief in unseen potential are often the true differentiators of success.
Allan Gray’s ad campaign: https://youtu.be/37_hvW68vP8?si=5VS5hzf5AvYVSDkg 
👣 Relevant Links LinkedIn: Allon Raiz - City of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa | Professional Profile | LinkedIn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AllonRaiz/  Facebook: Allon Raiz | Facebook Raizcorp Website: Raizcorp – Accelerate your success Raizcorp Instagram: Raizcorp (@raizcorp_) • Instagram photos and videos Raizcorp LinkedIn: Raizcorp | LinkedIn Raizcorp YouTube: Making strategy happen: an exclusive workshop with Allon Raiz 🌐 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