106. Curiosity as a Career Strategy with Opello's Alberto Hernandez
From testing video games to leading global brands, Alberto Hernandez’s career has been defined by one thing: curiosity.He’s proof that asking “why?” (and acting on it) can lead to successful and continuous reinvention.In his words, the best marketers are “curious about people’s daily struggles.” They are in the business of solving problems in the best ways they know how.Alberto shared many valuable lessons in his chat with Declan but this one stuck with us: Be curious enough to see what’s next, and courageous enough to chase it.
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105. Redefining Brand Value with Hollard's Group CMO Hazel Chimhandamba
In this episode, Hazel Chimhandamba, CMO of Hollard Insurance, chats to Declan about what it really means to be a commercial growth enabler. From redefining brand value to leading with data-driven creativity, Hazel shares how modern marketers can build influence in the boardroom and create brands people actually love.We cover:Turning purpose into performanceBuilding operating models that drive impactCreating customer-led value propositionsProtecting and growing brand equityFollowing the eyeballs and meeting your audience where they are"Marketing belongs in the boardroom because that’s where growth happens.”
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105. AI, Humanity, and the Art of the Possible with Google's Gopi Kallayil at the Tutu Foundation
In this inspiring episode, Jon sits down with Gopi Kallayil, Google’s Chief Business Strategist for AI, at the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in Cape Town.From connecting Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama for their first-ever live Hangout years ago, to leading Google’s AI strategy today, Gopi shares remarkable stories of innovation, spirituality, and purpose. He reflects on lessons from Mandela, Tutu, and Silicon Valley, and explores how AI is reshaping the world as a tool to amplify human potential.Together, Jon and Gopi discuss:The “healthy disregard for the impossible” that defines Google’s culture.How AI can uplift humanity, from healthcare to climate resilience.Gopi’s personal philosophy for balance and fulfilment: the “MEDALS formula.”What it means to live a life of purpose in the age of intelligent machines.A conversation that bridges technology, ethics, and the human spirit, reminding us that progress, at its best, begins within.
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1:20:47
104. From 80 million to 1.2 billion and back again with Zorros Partners' Anthony Steward
How do you grow a business from R80 million to R1.2 billion, nearly lose it, and then sell it to one of South Africa’s biggest retailers?Anthony Steward, co-founder of Medicare Health and now Zorros Partners, joins Declan to share the real story behind the numbers, including everything from the humbling lessons of over-ambition to the power of focus, trust, and vulnerability in leadership.One of the most honest, reflective conversations we’ve had yet.
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103. Building Brands that Belong with Miguel Netto, Bootlegger's Head of Marketing
From embracing agency life to knuckling down brand side, Miguel Netto’s marketing career has ticked all the boxes.As the Head of Marketing at Bootlegger, Miguel’s coffee-fueled days are focused on building a brand that doesn't advertise but rather works to belong within your lifestyle.Miguel chats to Declan about his (and Bootlegger’s) values of quality, consistency, and sustainability, and how these have been forged throughout his life and career journey - from competitive IRONMAN racing, to his role as Global B2B & Commercial Marketing Director at Aramex, to now leading a team at Bootlegger.Miguel shared many pieces of advice for aspiring marketers, including:Understand the numbers. Even if you’re a creative.Shoot your shot. Always.And, in the words of Miguel’s dad: If you’re going to miss the bus, miss the bus running. Which is to say, make it mean something 👊
Your fireside‑chat podcast powered by Engage Video Group, where data‑driven creativity meets human-centred storytelling 💪
Each episode features candid conversations with leading voices from global brands and top educational institutions.
Hosted by Jon Ratcliffe (Founder, ex‑Google/YouTube) and Declan Hollywood (Chief Growth Officer), as well as EVG’s Business Development Executives, the series brings together inspiring guests from diverse backgrounds, from financial services to creative tech, media, and global communications.
South Africa