Craft and Experience: Dale Tomlinson Artwork

The Incredible Machines

This is an educational series where we interview people we consider Incredible Machines. The conversations will be facilitated in a way that allows us to establish what makes these people “incredible” so that we may learn and try their strategies and tactics where applicable.

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The Incredible Machines

Craft and Experience: Dale Tomlinson

January 21, 2025 • Tim • Season 1 • Episode 10

Welcome to a special episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast! 🎙️
In this inspiring conversation, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Dale Tomlinson, the visionary creative leader behind The Hardy Boys, one of South Africa’s most celebrated advertising agencies. With a remarkable career spanning over 30 years, Dale shares his journey from an art student to the founder of an agency that redefined creativity in Durban and made waves internationally.

Dale’s story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of creativity. From his humble beginnings in a small South African town to presenting on the global stage at the Cannes Lions Festival, this episode is filled with life lessons, humour, and insights into the future of the advertising industry. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, creative professional, or industry veteran, Dale’s wisdom will leave you inspired and motivated.

💡 Guest Bio:
Dale Tomlinson is a pioneer in the advertising world known for his ability to turn creative visions into impactful campaigns. Founder of The Hardy Boys, Dale has played a key role in shaping the narrative of brands in South Africa and beyond. His leadership style, grounded in collaboration and curiosity, has made him a mentor to countless creatives and a driving force in the industry.

📚 Timestamped Overview:
01:30 – Dale’s early years and passion for creativity
07:30 – Starting The Hardy Boys: lessons learned in the early days
10:34 – The impact of resilience and adapting after setbacks
16:47 – Key milestones: Diageo partnership and the Cannes Lions presentation
19:23 – Growing The Hardy Boys and the acquisition by WPP
25:49 – Leadership lessons: building a culture of innovation
30:32 – Reflections on entrepreneurship and personal growth
40:00 – The Hardy Boys’ legacy and the next chapter
52:19 – Dale’s advice for the next generation of creatives

🔴 In This Episode:

The Power of Curiosity: Discover how curiosity can be the antidote to complacency in both life and business.
Resilience Through Setbacks: Dale shares how his spinal injury at 16 reshaped his life and inspired his career path.
Building an Iconic Agency: Learn the story behind The Hardy Boys' name and how it became synonymous with problem-solving.
Global Recognition: Hear about Dale’s experience presenting at the Cannes Lions Festival and the journey from Durban to the global stage.
Creative Leadership: Insights on how to nurture creativity within teams and foster an environment of collaboration and innovation.
Looking Ahead: Dale’s thoughts on legacy, retirement, and his newfound passion for art and storytelling.

Highlighted Quote:
"We have not come this far to be ordinary." – Dale Tomlinson

Highlighted Ad Campaign:
Robertsons Reinvention Kitchen https://youtu.be/wMxYqVQU7WU
The Hardy Boys - https://www.hardyboys.co.za/

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