In Episode 17 of The Incredible Machines Podcast, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Gordon Reid—financial advisor, philanthropist, and multi-discipline endurance athlete—for a high-energy, heart-led conversation on grit, giving, and growth.

From 16-hour days in retail to grueling army marches, to building a print business and pivoting into finance during COVID, Gordon shares how he’s embraced every challenge with humor, heart, and humility. But it’s his work in endurance sports and philanthropy—raising millions for childhood cancer and conservation—that reveals the depth of his impact.

This episode is a celebration of what it means to live a big life: showing up, pushing limits, serving others, and doing it all with a smile (and sometimes in a cow suit). Whether you’re chasing your next goal or wondering how to give back meaningfully—this one’s for you.

🔗 From comrades to community, fundraising to fatherhood, Gordon’s story is packed with courage, candid moments, and wild inspiration.

🔴 In This Episode:

💬 “You’re never too old for a happy childhood.”
Gordon shares a life philosophy passed down from his father and how it’s shaped his relentless pursuit of joyful living.

💬 How to Turn Challenges into Charity
From Midmar swims to Doozy races, Gordon explains how suffering can be turned into service—and fun.

💬 The ROI of Kindness
Gordon explores how his philanthropic efforts have helped grow a personal and professional network based on trust, impact, and community.

💬 The Business of Becoming
Why changing careers, embracing learning, and reinventing yourself after 40 can be the most rewarding moves you’ll ever make.

💬 Running Toward a Better World
Gordon gives us a behind-the-scenes look at upcoming events like Run for Rangers and how you can join or support.

👣 Relevant Links

🏃‍♂️ Run for Rangers: https://www.runforrangers.org
🦏 Endangered Wildlife Trust: https://www.ewt.org.za
🤝 BNI Rainmakers Chapter: https://www.bni.co.za
🐄 CHOC / The Cows Charity: https://www.thecows.co.za
Jesse Itzler (All Day Running): https://www.alldayrunningco.com
Gordon Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordsreid/ | https://www.instagram.com/luckygordy_/

https://www.fgro.co.za/gordon-reid/

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Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast!

In Episode 16, we sit down with Cindy Norcott — entrepreneur, motivational speaker, non-profit founder, and the definition of unstoppable.

As the founder of Pro Talent, author of How to Be Unstoppable, and visionary behind the Robin Hood Foundation, Cindy shares her extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to becoming a force for change in both business and community.

This episode is about more than success — it’s about resilience, generosity, and building a life of purpose while helping others do the same. From tough lessons in leadership to radically showing up for your community, Cindy’s story is packed with heart, humour, and hard-won wisdom.

🎥 We also break down Cindy’s featured TV ad campaign – watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rymT28Z6KQY

🔗 Whether you're building a business, a legacy, or simply trying to find your fire — this episode is for you.

📢 Listen or Watch Now:

🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2szkubBcGSZSXgOf6R9eyj
🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-incredible-machines-podcast/id1773774185
🔊 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/14f52da3-2fe9-4a78-a193-51479788343f
🌍 Podcast Website: https://www.pod.tim.africa

🔴 In This Episode:

💬 On Building a Legacy Through Action
Cindy shares how small consistent actions and a clear sense of purpose helped her build not just a successful business, but a thriving non-profit.

💬 Why Balance is a Myth
Instead of chasing balance, Cindy embraces blending — a more realistic and human way of showing up in every area of life.

💬 The Power of Self-Reflection and Routine
From 5am mornings to journaling and mentoring others, Cindy opens up about how intentionality helps her maintain clarity and momentum.

💬 Turning Adversity into Impact
With radical honesty, Cindy talks about failures, imposter syndrome, and the moments she almost gave up — and why she didn’t.

💬 Real Leadership is Generous
Her leadership philosophy is clear: build people, serve others, and lead from love.

👥 Connect with Cindy Norcott:

🌐 Website: https://cindynorcott.co.za/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindy.norcott/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindynorcott/
📘 Facebook: http

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In Episode 15 of The Incredible Machines Podcast, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Dr Pepe Marais—co-founder of Joe Public and South African thought leader on conscious leadership—for a profound conversation on purpose, personal transformation, and the creative power of business.

From near-death experiences to overcoming social phobia, and from launching one of South Africa’s most iconic agencies to shaping education and societal impact, Pepe’s journey is as raw and real as it is inspiring.

This episode dives deep into the inner work behind outer success—exploring identity, ego, trauma, entrepreneurship, and how businesses can (and should) be vehicles for meaningful change.

🔗 Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative, or just someone looking to live and lead with more purpose—this is a must-listen.

📚 Timestamped Overview

00:00 – Introduction: The birth of an incredible machine
06:00 – Death, rebirth, and a business partnership saved by fate
️12:30 – Social phobia, authenticity, and the path to public speaking
18:00 – Growing Greatness: The book and its personal roots
26:45 – Why business is the second most creative act (after children)
35:00 – The education crisis in South Africa and systemic failure
43:00 – The power of entrepreneurial learning and cellular experience
51:00 – Diversity, purpose, and the unseen forces that shape us
1:00:00 – Conscious capitalism: Why business needs soul
1:10:00 – Testing for consciousness and the Dana Kruger effect
1:25:00 – Building a purpose for South Africa

🔴 In This Episode:

💬 "The Worst Thing Is the Best Thing"
Pepe explains how life’s greatest challenges—from trauma to heartbreak—have become his biggest sources of growth.

💬 The Power of Purpose in Business
Discover why Pepe believes the success of Joe Public was fueled not by chasing money, but by aligning with purpose.

💬 Education as Economic Liberation
Why fixing South Africa’s education system is critical to national transformation—and why he's shifted focus from schooling to leadership.

💬 From Social Phobia to TEDx
Hear how Pepe overcame debilitating anxiety to become a powerful speaker, author, and changemaker.

💬 The Creative Force of Entrepreneurship
Starting a business isn’t just economic—Pepe calls it one of the most spiritual and creative acts available to humans.

Relevant Links:

The Egg - A Short Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6fcK_fRYaI&t=2s

Joe Public Website: https://joepublic.co.za/

Dr Pepe Marais: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-pepe-marais-ba142811?originalSubdomain=za

🌐 Connect with Us:

🌍 Website:

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Welcome to another powerful episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast!
In Episode 14, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Oscar Chalupsky, a world champion paddler, Olympian, and endurance athlete, to discuss his unbreakable mindset, defying the odds, and what it takes to achieve sustained success.
From winning his first world championship at 15 to competing at the highest levels well into his sixties, Oscar’s relentless drive, mental toughness, and "no excuses" philosophy set him apart as one of the most formidable athletes of our time.
In this episode, Oscar shares his experiences of pushing limits, overcoming failure, and staying competitive for decades, offering lessons in resilience, leadership, and personal growth that extend far beyond sports.

Links to Oscar:

Oscar Chalupsky – Corporate Speaker

Book: No Retreat, No Surrender

Oscar on:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

📚 Timestamped Overview
⏳ 00:00 – Introduction: Who is Oscar Chalupsky?
🔥 04:15 – Beating the odds: The mindset that sets champions apart
💪 08:30 – No retreat, no surrender: Why quitting is never an option
📈 12:45 – Learning from Olympic failure: How setbacks fuel success
🎯 18:10 – Seize the day: Taking action before it’s too late
🌟 23:35 – Positivity provides an opportunity: How your mindset creates success
🏅 28:50 – Training for longevity: Competing at a high level at any age
🛶 33:40 – The future of endurance sports and pushing human limits
💡 38:25 – Final reflections: Life lessons from a lifetime of competition

🔴 In This Episode:
💬 How to Develop a "No Retreat, No Surrender" Mindset
Oscar shares his philosophy on perseverance, grit, and never giving up, even when the odds seem impossible.
💬 Lessons from Olympic Failure
Why failure isn’t the end, but a stepping stone to greatness—and how Oscar used it to fuel his future success.
💬 The Power of Positivity in Creating Opportunities
How staying mentally strong and optimistic opens doors in both sports and business.
💬 Longevity & Performance: Competing Beyond Expectations
What it takes to remain competitive at any age, and how Oscar continues to train like a world-class athlete.
💬 Seizing the Moment & Taking Action
Oscar’s advice for maximizing opportunities, staying motivated, and making bold moves in life.

🌐 Connect with Us:
🌍 Website: https://www.tim.africa
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.africa
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica

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Welcome to another exciting episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating journeys of individuals who are making waves in their respective fields. In the 13th episode, with Mawanda and Simon, our host Jon Oliff sits down with two remarkable guests.

Mawanda, a video coach and entrepreneur with a penchant for personal branding and video content creation, shares his inspiring story of resilience and passion for community building.

Simon, a seasoned marketing consultant and personal brand specialist, talks about his journey from an aspiring psychologist to building brands with a personal touch.

Both guests discuss their views on the importance of personal branding in today's digital age, the value of mental health, and the powerful impact of video content. Join us as we uncover the intricate details of their lives, their highs and lows, and the wisdom they've gained along the way. This episode is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and personal growth.

Don't miss it!

🔴 In This Episode:

• Meet Mawanda, a video coach and entrepreneur who started his journey through dance and community building
• Meet Simon, a marketing consultant and personal brand specialist with extensive experience in lecturing
• Discussion on personal branding and why it matters in today's digital age
• Deep dive into mental health awareness and its importance in business and personal growth
• Analysis of innovative marketing campaigns, including the Volvo Interception Campaign and Kanye West's Yeezy Super Bowl ad
• Insights on the importance of adding value before asking in business
• Exploration of how past experiences shape who we become as leaders and entrepreneurs
• Discussion on the role of video content in modern business communication
• Personal stories of overcoming challenges and building resilience
• Thoughts on the future of content creation and personal branding in the age of AI

Marketing Case Study:VOLVO INTERCEPTION - GREY NEW YORK case study film

Advert: Kanye West promotes Yeezy fashion line

Highlighted Quote:

Simon's quote: "Trust the process. Your time is coming."

Mawanda's quote: "Always add value first, before the ask"

Other Links:

Simon Grainger I Marketing Consulting, Workshops & Talks

https://www.instagram.com/simongraingerconsulting/

Mawanda Maphumulo | Video Coach (@officialmawanda_m) • Instagram photos and videos

Creative Replay

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Welcome to another captivating episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast. In this episode, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden are thrilled to sit down with Nhlanhla Khambule, an inspiring entrepreneur and the CEO of Edinvest.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn what makes Nhlanhla an 'incredible machine' and how he is transforming lives through education and innovation.

💡 Guest Bio:

Nhlanhla Khambule is a resilient individual whose early life was marked by the political turbulence of the mid-1980s in South Africa. His journey reflects the courage and determination of many who lived through those turbulent times.

🔴 In This Episode:

• How does Nhlanhla Khambule's personal story of moving from a structured environment to a rural setting influence your understanding of resilience and adaptability?
• In what ways does Nhlanhla's concept of "See, Think, Innovate" contribute to developing an entrepreneurial mindset among young people?
• Discuss the impact of Nhlanhla's experiences in the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) and his educational endeavours on his approach to business and leadership.
• How does the concept of "never again will I perform a task less than my ability" resonate with you personally?
• Reflect on the importance of greetings and respect in Nhlanhla's cultural context.

Highlighted Quote:

"Everyone has inside of him a piece of good news. You don't know how great you can be, what you can achieve until you start doing something" - Anne Frank

Podcast Links:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/nhlanhla-khambule-734a1776?originalSubdomain=za
• Nhlanhla Khambule (@nkhambule) • Instagram photos and videos
• (11) Edinvest Holdings (Pty) Ltd: About | LinkedIn
• Highlighted Ad Campaign: Telkom 'Valley' Commercial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twuKjlEiOQE
• Introducing Innovative Thinking in School Curriculum | Nhlanhla Khambule | TEDxGreshamPlace:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wBD2CLzq6M

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Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast! Today, we are thrilled to host Siya Gule, a remarkable entrepreneur and the CEO of Beapo, a company revolutionizing the supply chain and strategic sourcing industries.

In this episode, Jon Oliff and co-host Luke Holden delve into Siya's inspiring journey from humble beginnings, to becoming a highly esteemed leader in his field. Siya shares heartfelt stories from his childhood, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that shaped him into the person he is today. His upbringing, marked by resilience and a drive to uplift others, is a testament to his character and leadership.

We also explore the significance of faith in Siya's life and business, discussing the unique approach of integrating spirituality into the workplace. This episode is rich with insights on authenticity, leadership, and the importance of keeping promises, illustrated beautifully by a touching case study featuring Roger Federer.

💡 Guest Bio:

Siya Gule is a driven individual committed to making a positive impact on the world around him. With a dream rooted in helping others and improving lives, Siya believes in leaving every place better than he found it. His selfless approach and dedication to making a difference have been the key factors in his success and motivation throughout his journey.

🔴 In This Episode:

• A Journey of Resilience: Hear Siya Gule's powerful story of overcoming hardship, from selling goods with his mother to becoming a successful entrepreneur.
• Faith in Business: Learn how Siya integrates faith into his business practices at Beapo, and how spirituality can positively impact corporate culture.
• The Value of Authenticity: Through analyzing the Roger Federer campaign case study, Siya shares insights about authentic leadership and keeping promises.
• Leadership Through Example: Discover how true leadership is built on actions rather than words, and the importance of maintaining a strong reputation.
• From Struggle to Success: Explore how challenging childhood experiences, including an absent father and financial hardships, shaped Siya's character and drive for success.

Highlighted Quote:

Maya Angelou's quote (paraphrased in the conversation) about people remembering not what you said or did, but how you made them feel.

Booker T. Washington's quote about success being measured not by where you are in life, but by the obstacles you've had to overcome.

Highlighted Ad Campaign:

Barilla pasta advertisement/campaign featuring Roger Federer fulfilling a "pinky promise" to a young boy named Zizou: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=roger+federer+%2B+promise+%2B+zizou

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Welcome to a special episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast! 🎙️
In this inspiring conversation, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with Dale Tomlinson, the visionary creative leader behind The Hardy Boys, one of South Africa’s most celebrated advertising agencies. With a remarkable career spanning over 30 years, Dale shares his journey from an art student to the founder of an agency that redefined creativity in Durban and made waves internationally.

Dale’s story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of creativity. From his humble beginnings in a small South African town to presenting on the global stage at the Cannes Lions Festival, this episode is filled with life lessons, humour, and insights into the future of the advertising industry. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, creative professional, or industry veteran, Dale’s wisdom will leave you inspired and motivated.

💡 Guest Bio:
Dale Tomlinson is a pioneer in the advertising world known for his ability to turn creative visions into impactful campaigns. Founder of The Hardy Boys, Dale has played a key role in shaping the narrative of brands in South Africa and beyond. His leadership style, grounded in collaboration and curiosity, has made him a mentor to countless creatives and a driving force in the industry.

📚 Timestamped Overview:
01:30 – Dale’s early years and passion for creativity
07:30 – Starting The Hardy Boys: lessons learned in the early days
10:34 – The impact of resilience and adapting after setbacks
16:47 – Key milestones: Diageo partnership and the Cannes Lions presentation
19:23 – Growing The Hardy Boys and the acquisition by WPP
25:49 – Leadership lessons: building a culture of innovation
30:32 – Reflections on entrepreneurship and personal growth
40:00 – The Hardy Boys’ legacy and the next chapter
52:19 – Dale’s advice for the next generation of creatives

🔴 In This Episode:

• The Power of Curiosity: Discover how curiosity can be the antidote to complacency in both life and business.
• Resilience Through Setbacks: Dale shares how his spinal injury at 16 reshaped his life and inspired his career path.
• Building an Iconic Agency: Learn the story behind The Hardy Boys' name and how it became synonymous with problem-solving.
• Global Recognition: Hear about Dale’s experience presenting at the Cannes Lions Festival and the journey from Durban to the global stage.
• Creative Leadership: Insights on how to nurture creativity within teams and foster an environment of collaboration and innovation.
• Looking Ahead: Dale’s thoughts on legacy, retirement, and his newfound passion for art and storytelling.

Highlighted Quote:
"We have not come this far to be ordinary." – Dale Tomlinson

Highlighted Ad Campaign:
Robertsons Reinvention Kitchen https://youtu.be/wMxYqVQU7WU
The Hardy Boys - https://www.hardyboys.co.za/

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