The Clueless Founder

The Clueless Founder

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Business

The Clueless Founder features honest, thought-provoking conversations with trailblazing entrepreneurs, creators, and changemakers. Together, we explore the pivotal moments, lessons, and inspirations that drive them to create, innovate, and make an impact.

1d ago

From Education to Empowerment, With Malcolm Freeman

In this episode of The Clueless Founder, I sit down with Malcolm Freeman from C-Salt to unpack his journey from education into youth mentorship and social impact. Malcolm shares how C-Salt was created to support unemployed young people with the kind of skills that are not always taught in classrooms, but are critical for life, work, and leadership. We explore the importance of confidence, emotional intelligence, feedback, communication, community, and helping young people believe that they have something valuable to offer. This conversation goes deeper than business. It looks at what it means to build something with purpose, how faith and community can shape impact, and how social enterprises can balance the desire to help people with the need to remain sustainable. If you are passionate about youth development, social entrepreneurship, education, mentorship, or building solutions that make a real difference in South Africa, this episode is for you. Key TopicsMalcolm’s journey from education to youth empowermentThe origin story and purpose behind C-SaltHow mentorship can support unemployed youthThe role of soft skills in employability and confidenceEmotional intelligence, feedback, and personal growthWhy learning by teaching can build confidenceThe challenge of balancing impact and sustainabilityFaith, community, and purpose-driven workKey TakeawaysYoung people often need more than technical skills. They need confidence, guidance, and the ability to communicate who they are.Mentorship works best when it helps people discover their own ability, not just follow instructions.Social enterprises need to serve people while still building a model that can survive and grow.Community can become a powerful foundation for transformation when people choose to invest in one another.Guest DetailsGuest: Malcolm Freeman Organisation: C-Salt Website: https://c-salt.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c_salt_education/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/c-salt-education-solutions/ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Malcolm Freeman and C-Salt 08:10 The Origin Story of C-Salt 16:02 Addressing Youth Unemployment and the Skills Gap 18:49 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence and Feedback 22:54 Understanding Behaviour and Building Relationships 23:37 Boosting Confidence Through Skill Development 30:36 Navigating the Help vs Profit Dilemma 36:29 Future Aspirations and Challenges for C-Salt 47:13 Closing Thoughts ContactIf you’re building something in Africa and wondering whether your journey is worth sharing, this episode is for you. Email: clueless@catalysthub.co.za Website: https://catalysthub.co.za Hashtags#TheCluelessFounder #CatalystHub #BuildInPublic #BuildersAndProblemSolvers #YouthEmpowerment #SocialEntrepreneurship #Mentorship #SkillsDevelopment #YouthUnemployment #SouthAfrica #FounderStories #CommunityFirst #BuildersHelpingBuilders #StartupCommunity #ShareYourStory #BuildingInAfrica #BusinessWithPurpose #CreateAndBuild #PayItForward

47 min
May 23

Branding in 2026, with Taimé Schrickker

Summary: In this episode, Taimé Schrickker, founder of Opulence by Design, shares her journey from corporate design to building her own brand. She discusses branding strategies, the impact of AI in design, and how businesses can stay relevant through authentic storytelling and strategic rebranding. Keywords: branding, design, AI in design, business growth, rebranding, storytelling, visual identity, digital marketing, entrepreneurship Key Topics Taimé's journey from corporate to entrepreneurshipThe importance of branding and rebrandingThe role of AI in design and brandingTrends in branding: authenticity and nostalgia Guest Name: Taimé Schrickker Contact links: Website: https://opulencebydesign.co.za/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opulence-bydesign/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opulence.bydesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558468761810 Key Frameworks Brand Evolution CycleAI Design Integration Action Items Evaluate your brand every 5-10 years.Incorporate authentic storytelling to connect with your audience.Leverage AI for research, ideation, and automation tasks. Chapters 00:00Introducing Taimé from Opulence by Design 15:45Trends in The Creative Space Today 18:47Practical Advice For Your Brand 20:48Closing Thoughts If you’re building something in Africa and wondering whether your journey is worth sharing, this episode is for you. Email: clueless@catalysthub.co.za Web: https://catalysthub.co.za #TheCluelessFounder #CatalystHub #BuildInPublic #BuildersAndProblemSolvers #EntrepreneurshipSA #StartupJourney #FounderLife #AfricanEntrepreneurs #SmallBusinessSA #SMMESouthAfrica #FounderStories #CommunityFirst #BuildersHelpingBuilders #StartupCommunity #ShareYourStory #BuildingInAfrica #BusinessWithPurpose #CreateAndBuild #PayItForward

22 min
May 9

Healing is a journey, with Shantal Pillay

Healing, Boundaries, and Future Goals: Inside the Mind of Wellness Counsellor Shani Pillay. Dive into the inspiring journey of Shani Pillay, founder of For Freedom Wellness Counselling, as she shares her insights on mental health, the importance of boundaries, and her vision for the future of her practice. Whether you're in wellness, considering starting a healing journey, or simply curious about building a meaningful brand in mental health, this episode offers valuable lessons and heartfelt stories. Main Topics Covered:Shani’s personal story of healing from childhood trauma and how it shaped her careerThe significance of boundaries and confidentiality in mental health counselingThe challenges and rewards of monetizing wellness servicesHow to recognize burnout and prioritize self-careThe process of writing her book, A Season for Healing, and its impactFuture plans including course development and expanding her practice Want to get in touch? Shanni's Book : A Season for Healing is availible on: Amazon and on TakeAlot Reach out the to her team vai the website: For Freedom Wellness Counseling Here are her social links: FacebookInstagramThis episode offers a heartfelt look into the journey of healing, the importance of boundaries, and embracing future growth with faith and intentionality. A must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, personal development, or building a purpose-driven practice. If you’re building something in Africa and wondering whether your journey is worth sharing, this episode is for you. Email: clueless@catalysthub.co.za Web: https://catalysthub.co.za #TheCluelessFounder #CatalystHub #BuildInPublic #BuildersAndProblemSolvers #EntrepreneurshipSA #StartupJourney #FounderLife #AfricanEntrepreneurs #SmallBusinessSA #SMMESouthAfrica #FounderStories #CommunityFirst #BuildersHelpingBuilders #StartupCommunity #ShareYourStory #BuildingInAfrica #BusinessWithPurpose #CreateAndBuild #PayItForward

37 min
12/20/2025

Spotlights and Showcases

In Episode 4 of The Clueless Founder, Craig shifts the channel from a solo journey to a shared platform for builders. He unpacks what’s coming next for the podcast and how the spotlight starts widening to include the community. Craig introduces two key storytelling formats. The Community Spotlight, created for founders in the early stages who are still figuring things out, and the Founders Showcase, designed for experienced entrepreneurs and businesses who have walked the path and are willing to support the next generation responsibly. This episode explores why every founder’s story matters, regardless of revenue, scale, or polish. Craig shares the vision for creating a transparent, community-driven space where builders support builders, stories inspire action, and success is paid forward. If you’re building something in Africa and wondering whether your journey is worth sharing, this episode is for you. #TheCluelessFounder #CatalystHub #BuildInPublic #BuildersAndProblemSolvers #EntrepreneurshipSA #StartupJourney #FounderLife #AfricanEntrepreneurs #SmallBusinessSA #SMMESouthAfrica #FounderStories #CommunityFirst #BuildersHelpingBuilders #StartupCommunity #ShareYourStory #BuildingInAfrica #BusinessWithPurpose #CreateAndBuild #PayItForward Email: clueless@catalysthub.co.za Web: https://catalysthub.co.za

16 min
12/06/2025

Angels and Funding

In this conversation, Craig discusses the importance of attracting support in business by demonstrating value and clarity. He emphasises the need for entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and products effectively, even without initial funding, to engage the market and prove their worth. #business, #value, #funding, #market, #attraction, #clarity, #problem-solving, #entrepreneurship Takeaways Humans are attracted to those who make a difference.Support comes easily to those moving in a clear direction.Demonstrating value can start without any funding.Show the market what you have to offer.Clarity in communication is key to attracting attention.Start small to build momentum in your business.Proving worth is essential for gaining market interest.Entrepreneurs should focus on actionable steps.Value demonstration can lead to greater support.Engaging the market is crucial for business success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Clueless Founder Journey00:15 Funding Journey and Catalyst Hub00:47 Creative Funding Ideas and Closing Thoughts Email: clueless@catalysthub.co.za Web: https://CatalystHub.co.za/

20 min
11/22/2025

Starting Small and Seeking Clarity

In this episode of The Clueless Founder, Craig introduces Catalyst Hub, an AI-powered platform designed to support small businesses by providing them with tools typically reserved for larger companies. He emphasises the importance of starting small with clarity, sharing a hypothetical story about a coffee cart owner named Joe to illustrate how Catalyst Hub can streamline operations and enhance customer engagement through automation. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to join the early access program and share their entrepreneurial stories. Email: clueless@catalysthub.co.za Web: https://CatalystHub.co.za/

13 min
11/08/2025

Afraid but starting up anyway.

In the first episode of The Clueless Founder, Craig introduces his journey of building a business in Africa. He shares his vision for Catalyst Hub, a digital ecosystem designed to support African entrepreneurs. Craig discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, emphasising the importance of taking action and learning from mistakes. He invites fellow entrepreneurs to join him in sharing their stories and growing together. Email: clueless@catalysthub.co.za Web: https://CatalystHub.co.za/

15 min

7 Episodes

The Clueless Founder features honest, thought-provoking conversations with trailblazing entrepreneurs, creators, and changemakers. Together, we explore the pivotal moments, lessons, and inspirations that drive them to create, innovate, and make an impact.

Creator

The Clueless Founder
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

7
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2025 The Clueless Founder
Show Website

The Clueless Founder