The Incredible Machines

TIM Africa

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.

  1. Paying It Forward: Simon Nicolson

    APR 21

    Paying It Forward: Simon Nicolson

    Welcome to Episode 43 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Simon Nicolson, an Executive for Institutional Advancement at Emeris, and the driving force behind one of SA's most significant private higher education rebrands.   From his formative years growing up in Pinetown and Pietermaritzburg, to navigating the challenges of national service, university life, and a career that took him from newspaper advertising to retail and ultimately into private higher education, Simon shares a fascinating and honest account of the journey that shaped him.  He reflects on the landmark rebranding of Varsity College to Emeris, the evolving landscape of private higher education in South Africa, the transformative power of sport as a brand-building tool, and his deep belief in campaigns that don't just communicate but genuinely change the world. Along the way, we explore themes of lateral thinking, conscious capitalism, kindness as a leadership philosophy, and the exponential potential of paying it forward.  This episode is packed with hard-won insights, candid self-reflection, and a genuine passion for education, people, and the future of South Africa. Whether you're a marketer, an educator, a leader, or simply someone who loves a good story, there is something here for everyone.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview  00:07 – Introduction to Kevin, Early Life and Family Background  02:13 – Reflecting on Life’s Highs and Lows   03:55 – High School Challenges and Teenage Years  06:02 – University and Army Years    07:34 – Day Boy vs. Boarder School Experience    09:01 – Army Service and Its Impact  14:56 – Discipline and Personal Development     18:44 – Early Work Experience and Bartending    21:09 – Meeting His Wife and Early Relationships   24:39 – Family Game Drives and Conservation Influence   27:07 – Academic Background and MBA  28:11 – Value of Communication Skills in Business   32:10 – Career in Marketing and Transition to Education  38:22 – Private vs. Public Higher Education in South Africa    41:14 – Future of Private Universities and Student Experience    51:37 – Personalization, Chatbots, and Communication Etiquette    57:58 – Africa’s Future and STEM Growth  01:03:48 – Transformative Campaigns: ‘Like a Girl’ and ‘Pay It Forward’    01:14:25 – Kindness, Leadership, and Nurturing Culture  01:29:10 – Philanthropy and Access to Education  01:36:19 – Corporate Culture and Conscious Capitalism    01:39:55 – Favourite Quotes and Lateral Thinking  01:43:11 – Influential Books and Deeper Thinking  01:56:23 – Emeris University Rebrand: Process and Teamwork        💬 Quote of the Episode  "AI is going to be bigger than the invention of the World Wide Web; it will enter every aspect of life, and it’s crazy to think you can avoid or suppress it; you have to incorporate it” – Simon Nicolson        🧠 Related Campaign Example   MTN Qhubeka TV Advert: Simon chose this advert because it demonstrates the power of marketing to challenge stereotypes and inspire positive change. The initiatives inspired participants to “pay it forward”.  MTN Qhubeka TV Advert: https://youtu.be/mmYVbW5yisc         👣 Relevant Links    LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/simon-nicolson-99600116   Emeris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emeris/   Emeris Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeris_za/   Emeris Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emerisZA   Emeris TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeris_za   Emeris YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Emeris_ZA   Emeris Twitter: https://x.com/Emeris_ZA   Emeris Website: https://www.emeris.ac.za/       🌐 Connect with Tim Africa  🔗 Website: https://www.tim.africa  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa  📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica  🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tim.africa_   Podcast Page: https://www.pod.tim.africa

    1h 46m
  2. The Opportunity of Creative Perspective: Kevin Parry

    MAR 31

    The Opportunity of Creative Perspective: Kevin Parry

    Welcome to Episode 42 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Kevin Parry, a Durban-based creative director, designer, and endurance athlete. He shares his journey from discovering his creative passion at a young age, navigating the ups and downs of the local design industry, to ultimately leading award-winning campaigns.  He unpacks his personal challenges that shaped his career and outlook; including experiences with failure, family struggles, sobriety, and the importance of vulnerability and mental health, especially for men. The discussion also delves into Kevin’s love for adventure and trail running, his unique approach to design thinking, and the powerful role of community.  Whether you’re a fellow creative, an endurance enthusiast, or just someone seeking resilience and authenticity, this episode offers genuine inspiration, practical wisdom, and a reminder that we all have stories worth sharing.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview  00:41 – Introduction to Kevin, and Humour Preferences   02:56 – Movie Quotes and SNL Character Breaking     08:18 – First Movie Memories and Disney Influence  09:25 – School Memories and Childhood Ads  12:24 – Early Life: Moving from Joburg to Durban  17:00 – Love for South Africa and Japan Travel    18:41 – Japan’s Culture and Design Aesthetic    19:31 – European Destinations and Family Abroad  22:59 – Karate World Champs and Japanese Culture   26:42 – Karate in the Family and Sports for Kids    31:04 – Early Career, Family Struggles and Dropping Out    37:52 – Agency Transitions and Diverse Experience    43:03 – Meaning Behind “In the Beginning” Agency  48:14 – Self-Doubt, Recognition, and Humility  55:22 – Different Sibling Experiences and Therapy  01:00:06 – Pain, Avoidance, and Growth  01:03:08 – Ad Campaign: Robertson’s Spice Reinvention Kitchen   01:10:19 – Content Creation and Digital Assets  01:14:33 – Hardy Boys Agency and Digital Integration  01:20:42 – Vulnerability, Therapy, and Community  01:27:00 – Holistic Health and Mental Resilience  01:30:43 – Reflections on Suffering and Sharing Stories        💬 Quote of the Episode  "The truest form of strength is vulnerability.” – Kevin Parry        🧠 Related Campaign Example   Robertson's Spice Reinvention Kitchen Campaign: — Kevin chose this campaign because it showcased collaboration, creativity, and the integration of identity design, interior architecture, and storytelling, as the restaurant physically transformed daily to highlight different spices. The project was deeply rewarding for its multi-disciplinary approach and required months of planning, with each day’s unique theme reflected in both décor and menus.  Robertson’s Spice Reinvention Kitchen Campaign: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMxYqVQU7WU  👣 Relevant Links    LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/kevparry  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kev_parry/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.parry.735  In The Beginning Website: https://cargocollective.com/inthebeginning  In The Beginning Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/in_the_beginning    Beyond The Finish Line Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthefinishline24    Instagram Quote: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkBeQIIJ22U/      🌐 Connect with Tim Africa  🔗 Website: https://www.tim.africa  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa  📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica  🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tim.africa_   🎧 Podcast Page: https://www.pod.tim.africa

    1h 32m
  3. Impeccable Branding: Briony Bosse

    MAR 24

    Impeccable Branding: Briony Bosse

    Welcome to Episode 41 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Briony Bosse, a Durban-based brand consultant, lecturer, and mentor. She shares her journey from the call centre world to academia, reflecting on her passion for education, brand integrity, and helping others discover their authentic selves.  Briony delves into her approaches to personal and corporate branding, the importance of truth and self-knowledge, her experiences with whole-brain thinking, and the challenges and opportunities AI brings to education. She unpacks personal milestones, including the influence of her parents, the power of creative visualization, and lessons learned through adversity, most notably her husband's serious motorbike accident.  This episode is full of actionable insights on branding, education, resilience, and the value of making a difference one person at a time. Whether you're interested in personal growth, brand building, or the transformative power of authentic storytelling, there’s something here for everyone.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview  00:10 – Introduction to Briony, Retreat Experience and Lifeline Equation  01:40 – Using Lifelines in Branding and Self-Discovery  03:21 – Personal Branding Formula and Timeline Exercise  04:36 – Master’s Research and Call Centre Topic  06:12 – Personal Challenges and Academic Extensions  08:39 – Advice to 16-Year-Old Self and Power of Visualization  10:26 – Whole Brain Thinking in Education and Consulting  13:05 – AI in Education: Challenges and Solutions  16:29 – Oral Exams and Student Anxiety  20:30 – Living with Loss and Mother’s Influence  23:09 – Mother’s Teachings and Self-Reliance  25:06 – Book Writing: An Impeccable Brand  29:19 – Shadow Work and Embracing the Whole Self  31:38 – Feminism, Self-Worth, and Supportive Men  36:08 – Husband’s Motorbike Accident and Family Resilience  40:14 – Spiritual Experience and Deep Peace  45:14 – Wisdom, Aging, and Experience  48:38 – Standing in Your Own Power and Marianne Williamson  52:40 – Critical Influences: Parents as Role Models    53:49 – Messages to Lost Loved Ones  57:26 – Strategy in a Rapidly Changing World  01:02:28 – Podcasting, Writing, and Brand Education         💬 Quote of the Episode  “Everything that we need to know sits within us. If you sit quietly for long enough and dig deep enough, you’ll find the answers within you.” – Briony Bosse    🧠 Related Campaign Example   Apples’ Think Different Campaign: — Briony chose this campaign because it celebrates thinking differently and having the courage to be yourself, a message she strongly resonates with in both personal and professional spheres. She admires how the campaign highlights extraordinary individuals who challenged the status quo and inspired change, echoing her own advocacy for authenticity and self-belief.    Apples’ Think Different Campaign: https://youtu.be/5sMBhDv4sik?si=LLD7GdhCBjW7qm0s         👣 Relevant Links    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briony-bosse-06726a20/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briony1517/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briony.hanrahanbosse         🌐 Connect with Tim Africa  🔗 Website: https://www.tim.africa  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa  📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica  🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tim.africa_  🎧 Podcast Page: https://www.pod.tim.africa

    1h 3m
  4. Growth, Authenticity and Empowerment: Raeesa Bayat

    MAR 17

    Growth, Authenticity and Empowerment: Raeesa Bayat

    Welcome to Episode 38 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Raeesa Bayat, the director of Startup Grind Durban and a passionate advocate for female entrepreneurs. She speaks about her journey from a traditional Indian family, overcoming self-esteem challenges, to confidently commanding stages and building entrepreneurial communities in Durban.  Raeesa shares memorable stories about iconic South African advertising, her path to public speaking, and the unique challenges of fostering local startup ecosystems. Jon, Luke and Raeesa unpack topics like imposter syndrome, the influence of family expectations, the power of authenticity in the age of AI, and the importance of mentorship (especially for women entering male-dominated spaces). She also offers practical insights into building meaningful business connections and balancing ambition with humility and purpose.  Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, community builder, or simply curious about real leadership journeys and the nuances of South African innovation, this episode is brimming with honest reflections, practical advice, and heartfelt stories.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview  00:24 – Introduction and Nostalgic South African Ads  01:13 – Ad Jingles and Sasol Ad Reboot  03:02 – Childhood Memories and Universal Appeal  04:00 – South African Creativity and Melting Pot  05:38 – Public Speaking Journey Begins  07:57 – Family Dynamics and Comparisons  10:02 – Overcoming Self-Doubt  12:05 – Social Media and Comparison Culture  14:07 – Authenticity and Social Media    17:03 – Public Speaking and School Experiences  21:31 – Becoming Startup Grind Director  26:14 – Founders Coffee Connect Format  31:12 – AI, Social Media, and Craving Authenticity  35:22 – Authentic Conversations as Gold  39:28 – Plans for Female Leadership Focus  48:17 – Balancing Encouragement and Critique as a Parent  52:46 – Role Models and Family Influence  56:20 – Female Leadership, Mentorship, and Career Growth  58:53 – Multiple Mentors and Book Recommendation        💬 Quote of the Episode  “It comes down to the concept of don't dim your own light to make yourself comfortable. You were created for something greater, so own it and go after that.” – Raeesa Bayat    🧠 Related Campaign Example     Sasol “Glug Glug” TV Commercial — Raeesa chose this commercial for its strong sense of nostalgia, its universal appeal through childhood fantasy, and the iconic "glug glug" jingle that resonated with many South Africans. The ad featured a child imagining filling up a race car, which made it especially memorable and relatable for her as a parent. She also noted that Sasol recreated the ad in recent years with similarly strong engagement.  Sasol “Glug Glug” TV Commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=825nSfTLIaA       👣 Relevant Links    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raeesa.bayat.3/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raeesa_bayat/   LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/raeesa-bayat     StartUp Grind Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/startupgrinddurban   StartUp Grind Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupgrinddurban/   StartUp Grind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startupgrind-durban/  StartUp Grind Website: https://www.startupgrind.com/durban/       🌐 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

    55 min
  5. Breach: Ronen Aires

    MAR 10

    Breach: Ronen Aires

    Welcome to Episode 40 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Ronen Aires, founder of Student Village, youth specialist, author of "Breach," and passionate coach in breathwork and performance. Marc shares his personal journey from growing up in a small South African town and being groomed for the family business, to carving his own path as an entrepreneur dedicated to empowering the next generation.  The discussion delves deeply into generational perspectives, with Ronen reflecting on the evolving nature of confidence, the challenges and opportunities faced by Gen Z, and lessons learned from both his business and life experiences. They explore topics like reverse mentorship, the power of adversity, and the vital balance between ancient wisdom and future-facing innovation. He also unpacks the unique mindset of being a "young elder," explains the importance of knowing oneself, and shares practical takeaways for leaders seeking to bridge generational divides.  Whether you're interested in youth culture, entrepreneurship, personal development, or the intersection of technology and society, this episode offers thought-provoking stories and actionable advice for today’s rapidly changing world.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview  01:04 – Introduction to Ronen, Small Town Upbringing and Confidence    03:08 – Parenting Styles: Helicopter and Lawnmower Parents    05:17 – Grit, Adversity, and South African Youth  07:20 – Gen Z’s Optimism & Can-Do Attitude  08:10 – Ronen’s Origin Story and Family Business  10:55 – Family Business Dynamics and Impact Focus  13:17 – University, Banking, and Student Village Genesis  16:37 – Early Student Village Challenges and Guerrilla Marketing  19:01 – Free SMS and Viral Growth    21:44 – Research as a Lead Generation Tool  24:47 – Africa’s Youth Bulge and Societal Impact    26:54 – Gen Z: Intern as CEO’s Life Coach  27:59 – Reverse Mentorship and Intergenerational Learning    31:25 – Blockchain, Decentralization and Youth Culture  34:58 – The Young Elder: Bridging Generations    40:20 – Disruption, Breach, and Organizational Agility  45:23 – Elders’ Mistakes with Gen Z   49:44 – Universal Income and AI-Driven Future  54:31 – RMB Ad Campaign and Creative Boldness  01:01:07 – Accountability and Main Character Energy  01:06:50 – Breathwork, Burnout, and Personal Growth  01:13:03 – Ancient Wisdom, Modern Life and Looking Ahead        💬 Quote of the Episode  "Know thyself is something you'll spend your whole lifetime trying to figure out.” – Ronen Aires        🧠 Related Campaign Example   RMB’s “Talent Loves Company” Campaign: — Ronen admires how this campaign revitalized advertising through bold and fun creative use of first-person perspective videography. He notes that the ads feature playful language and vibrant visuals (like unicorns), and he praises RMB for giving the agency the freedom to completely reimagine their brand.    RMB’s “Talent Loves Company” Campaign:  https://youtu.be/efru71Dr75w           👣 Relevant Links    LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/ronen-aires   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronen_aires/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576721574445  Student Village Website: https://www.studentvillage.co.za/   Student Village LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/student-village   Student Village Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studentvillage/   Student Village Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studentvillage   Student Village TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@studentvillage   Student Village Twitter: https://x.com/studentvillage   Student Village YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/studentvillage       🌐 Connect with Tim Africa  🔗 Website: https://www.tim.africa  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa  📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica  🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tim.africa_   Podcast Page: https://www.pod.tim.africa

    1h 17m
  6. Patience, Persistence, and Potential: James Lees

    FEB 24

    Patience, Persistence, and Potential: James Lees

    Welcome to Episode 39 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with James Lees, an entrepreneur, educator, and co-founder of Advantage Learning Technology. He shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Johannesburg and Durban to building one of South Africa’s most innovative digital education businesses.  He speaks about key moments that shaped his life, from family upheavals and educational pivots to founding a business with a mission to unlock potential across Africa. James reflects on the importance of discipline, the power of community, and how a life-altering stroke shifted his perspective on purpose, health, and the value of time. This episode we dive into education reformed, the realities of entrepreneurship, personal setbacks, and powerful lessons learnt on resilience, vulnerability, and unlocking potential in others.  Whether you’re interested in education, entrepreneurship, or stories of overcoming adversity and finding purpose, this episode is packed with heartfelt stories, practical insights, and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in their own life and community.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview  00:10 – Introduction to Briony, Retreat Experience and Lifeline Equation  01:51 – AI Tools and Lifeline Exercise  03:32 – Forum Experiences and Emotional Reflection  07:51 – Family Background and Early Life in Johannesburg  10:56 – Moving to Durban and Parental Divorce  12:39 – Reflections on Father-Son Relationship and Shame  16:26 – Generational Differences in Emotional Awareness  19:18 – Schooling Journey and Educational Opportunities  24:29 – Leadership Aspirations and Achievements  26:23 – Spirit Adventure Gap Year  29:13 – University Studies and Degree Choices  33:03 – Actuarial Science: Challenges and Reflections  41:23 – Early Career: Data Science and Massmart  48:05 – Transition to Education Business    54:12 – Scaling the Business and Digital Learning  59:03 – COVID-19 and Pivot to Online Education  01:02:48 – Mission to Unlock Educational Potential    01:09:05 – Personal Health: Olympic Weightlifting  01:11:53 – Stroke Experience and Recovery   01:26:49 – Reflections on Mortality and Family  01:36:27 – Purpose, Legacy, and Unlocking Potential        💬 Quote of the Episode  " It's unlocking potential in others. That's what I believe my purpose is.” – James Lees    🧠 Related Campaign Example   Allan Gray's “Give It Time” Campaign: — James admires its powerful message about patience, persistence, and unlocking potential, and how the story of the trumpet player reflects personal and societal growth over decades. He highlights the ad’s undertones about South African history, personal purpose, and the importance of others in realising one’s potential. .    Allan Gray's “Give It Time” Campaign: https://youtu.be/7wILoczeXOk?si=ArtlViXmPfotWd24          👣 Relevant Links    LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/jamestrevorlees   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downtothelees/   Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/james.lees.3367   Advantage Learning Technology Website: https://www.advantagelearn.com/   Advantage Learning Technology LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/advantage-learn/   Advantage Learning Technology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/advantagelearnofficial   Advantage Learning Technology Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/AdvantageLearn1   Advantage Learning Technology YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ6k3RQSDkk7gzDFroxG8sA       🌐 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

    1h 35m
  7. Injury, Introspection, and Reinvention: Dorin Bambus

    JAN 27

    Injury, Introspection, and Reinvention: Dorin Bambus

    Welcome to Episode 37 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Dorin Bambus, a creative director, agency founder, and all-around storyteller. He shares his journey from a sports-obsessed teenager navigating life-changing injuries, through his years as an editor and co-founder of Gorilla Creative Media, to his recent leap into the unknown by moving abroad and embracing new opportunities.  Dorin digs into the lessons learned from physical adversity, the evolution of South Africa’s creative agency landscape, and how self-understanding, resilience, and curiosity can shape both personal and professional paths. He speaks about embracing the change, building creative teams, and shifting the meaning of success over decades.   Whether you’re facing your own crossroads, building something new, or just craving a meaningful origin story, this episode delivers powerful advice, vivid storytelling, and encouragement to stretch beyond your comfort zone.        ⏱ Timestamped Overview 00:10 – Introduction and Advice to My 16-Year-Old Self  01:18 – Caring Less About Others’ Opinions with Age  02:05 – Extending Time Horizons and Daily Habits  04:22 – Early Career and Wakeboarding  05:06 – Career Timeline: Blunt Magazine and The Way of Us    06:50 – Giving Up Wakeboarding After Injury  07:12 – Major Life Lows: Physical Injuries  08:01 – First Major Injury: Knee Surgery at 16  09:44 – Second Major Injury: Broken Leg Wakeboarding  14:05 – Third Major Injury: Back Surgery  16:16 – Physical vs. Emotional Lows  18:48 – Hospital Experience and Risk of Amputation  24:08 – Wakeboarding Accident Details   28:07 – Seeking Context and Meaning in Stories  30:10 – Founding Gorilla Creative Media  36:18 – Growth and Evolution of Gorilla  41:22 – Openness to Different Paths  45:39 – Leaving Gorilla and Seeking New Direction  51:17 – Liberation in Uncertainty  55:41 – Favorite Gorilla Campaign: Axe Antiperspirant  01:08:10 – Philosophy of Advertising and Storytelling  01:17:01 – On Rewriting and Perspective      💬 Quote of the Episode  “Talk less, listen more and read more books.” – Dorin Bambus    🧠 Related Campaign Example     Axe “Stay Dry” Campaign — Dorin chose this campaign because it marked a significant departure for Axe, moving from the usual seduction narrative to embracing awkwardness and authenticity, with a simple, confident message. The campaign was notable for being digital-first, featuring headline creative on YouTube rather than traditional media, and for the brand team’s trust in allowing such a bold creative direction.        👣 Relevant Links    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dorinbambus   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorinvolved/   LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/dorinbambus     Gorilla Creative Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GorillaCreativeMedia   Gorilla Creative Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gorillacm   Gorilla Creative Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gorilla-creative-media   Gorilla Creative Media Twitter: https://x.com/gorillacm   Gorilla Creative Media Website: https://gorilla.agency/         🌐 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

    1h 24m
  8. Purpose, Belonging & Healing: Laiela Dorasamy

    JAN 13

    Purpose, Belonging & Healing: Laiela Dorasamy

    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

    1h 39m
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    TIM Africa
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Incredible Machines
  • Show Website
    The Incredible Machines

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