The Incredible Machines

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

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

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

Welcome to Episode 35 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Jeff Dean Hubbard, a professional bodyboarder and entrepreneur from Hawaii. We discuss Jeff’s journey from his early days on Kauai to becoming a world champion and co-founding Hub Boards with his brother Dave.  

He shares insights on bodyboarding culture, product innovation, and the challenges of running a specialized sports brand. The conversation covers community traditions, the cyclical nature of the sport, and balancing family life with business. Jeff’s reflections highlight the importance of passion, resilience, and staying connected to both the sport and its evolving community. 

This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and a deep passion for bodyboarding and entrepreneurship. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just curious about the sport, there's something here for everyone. 
 
 
 
⏱ Timestamped Overview 

00:10 – Introduction, Personal Reflections and Advice to Younger Self 
02:07 – Family Background and Early Life 
03:49 – Discovering Bodyboarding and Early Influences 
05:05 – Beginning to Compete and College Years  
06:22 – Parents’ Origins and Moving to Oahu 
07:16 – No Friends Crew and Community 
09:04 – Bodyboarding in South Africa and Global Peak 
11:45 – No Friends Videos and Favourite Memories  
12:58 – Returning to School and Applying Business Skill 
15:13 – Entrepreneurial Ventures Before Hubboards 
16:58 – Launching and Running Hubboards 
18:04 – Product Range and Design Philosophy 
19:42 – Branding and Tagline 
20:22 – Recent Achievements and Family Success 
24:26 – Personal Brand and Daily Routine 
26:20 – Technology and Surf Forecasting Evolution 
27:55 – Exercise, Family Life, and Kids 
29:07 – Plans and Product Development for 2025  
32:45 – Challenges of Manufacturing and Tariffs 
34:24 – Managing Product SKUs and Inventory 
37:48 – Production and Quality Control 
38:14 – Trends, Colours, and Customer Preferences 
40:23 – Demographics and the Adult Bodyboarding Boom 
43:41 – Why Older Bodyboarders Return  
47:11 – Favourite and Heaviest Waves 
48:28 – Traditions and Branding in Bodyboarding  
51:06 – Jeff Hubbard's Future Plans and Reflections 
 
 
 
💬 Quote of the Episode 

“When you love something, but it’s withheld, your passion for it grows.” – Jeff Dean Hubbard 
 
🧠 Related Campaign Example  
 
Corona Lime Ritual TV Commercial — Jeff mentions how the iconic ritual of adding a lime to a Corona wasn’t originally a cultural norm but was created as a “full branding thing,” underscoring the power of simple, memorable brand rituals. 

Corona Lime Ritual TV Commercial: https://youtu.be/YeVW40mftyw?si=OYolX8odKYlkrswj 

 
 
 
👣 Relevant Links 
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100044349105096  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffreydeanhubbard/  
 
Hubboards Website: https://hubboards.com/  
Hubboards Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShopHUBBOARDS/  
Hubboards Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hubboards/  
Hubboards Twitter: https://x.com/hubboards  
Hubboards YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzlQPZmqKiWQSHw9FHhX_aw/feed  
 
 
🌐 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 34 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Judy Le Roux, a resilient mother and lifelong learner whose journey is marked by adaptation and perseverance. Judy speaks about raising her son Michael, who faced significant medical challenges from birth, and how these experiences shaped her outlook on life. She reflects on her childhood, the pivotal moments that led to career changes, and her willingness to embrace new technology and opportunities. 

Throughout the episode, Judy emphasizes the importance of consistency, maintaining a positive mindset, and surrounding oneself with supportive people. She shares how adversity can be a powerful teacher, and how strength is often found in quiet heroes and everyday acts of courage. Together, they explore the value of learning from setbacks, the role of community, and the transformative power of perseverance. 

Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, considering a career pivot, or seeking inspiration to overcome obstacles, this episode distils Judy’s most valuable lessons, each packed with actionable advice and interesting perspectives for anyone striving to turn adversity into triumph. 

⏱ Timestamped Overview 

00:40 – Introductions, Early Tech and Mindset 
02:02 – Mindset and Life Choices 
04:53 – Judy’s Childhood and Family Values 
07:25 – Michael’s Birth and Early Medical Challenges 
08:39 – Medical Journey: Eyes, Legs, and Resilience 
11:43 – Turning Point and Choosing to Fight 
12:52 – Relentless Search for Solution 
14:54 – First Major Surgery and Hope 
17:01 – Ongoing Operations and Development 
19:27 – School Challenges and Small Victories 
21:38 – Resilience in the Face of Setbacks  
24:50 – Sales Career and Lessons from Adversity 
27:10 – Early Career with a Sandwich Business 
32:36 – Family, Culture, and Hiring Philosophy 
35:39 – Confidence vs. Arrogance 
37:37 – Dealing with Haters and Protecting Your Story 
39:50 – Facts Over Emotion and Mentoring Others 
44:32 – Resilience Defined and Michael’s Achievement 
49:39 – Consistency as a Life Principle  
51:20 – Incredible Machines and Inspirations  
54:05 – Legacy and Words to Her Son Michael 

💬 Quote of the Episode 

“No matter what anybody says, don’t give up because it’s your choice and you are in control of your mind.” – Judy Le Roux 

🧠 Related Campaign Example  
 
Forest 5000 “Consistency” TV Commercial — Judy loves the ad’s message that “consistency is the only currency that matters” and relates it to her own life: building success one day at a time, even against the odds, is like growing a forest from single seeds. She chose this campaign to highlight how persistence and small daily efforts accumulate into something extraordinary. 

Forest 5000 “Consistency” TV Commercial: https://youtu.be/PinzhCzt6Zo 

👣 Relevant Links 
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judy-le-roux-mba-a4097994/  
Facebook: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judy-le-roux-mba-a4097994/  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rjudyle/  
 
 
 
🌐 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