The Incredible Machines

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

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

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

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

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