Claim OwnershipThe Business of Influence
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Welcome to the ultimate podcast for all things influencer marketing. Join our hosts, Style ID Africa Director Tami Ruschin and award winning influencer Leroy Marc, as they delve into the dynamic influencer landscape.
Every week, we bring you engaging conversations with a diverse range of guests, including brand managers, influencers, content creators, PR and media experts, and entrepreneurs.
With a finger on the pulse of the industry, we explore topics that matter, from social and digital media to online trends, monetisation strategies, new technologies, and the ever changing landscape.
Every week, we bring you engaging conversations with a diverse range of guests, including brand managers, influencers, content creators, PR and media experts, and entrepreneurs.
With a finger on the pulse of the industry, we explore topics that matter, from social and digital media to online trends, monetisation strategies, new technologies, and the ever changing landscape.
42 Episodes
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In this IMC conversation, we sat down with Phathiswa Sefatswa, Brand Executive at Click Group, to unpack the real role marketing plays in shaping business outcomes today.Phathiswa reminds us that marketing is not the “supporting act,” it is the strategic engine that drives revenue, brand affinity, and long-term business growth. At its core, marketing is about consistency, clarity, and staying anchored to your brand’s true north.As the digital ecosystem continues to evolve at record speed, brands must learn to adapt intuitively. Despite new platforms and new formats, the fundamentals haven’t changed: people want to be seen, heard, understood, and invited into the narrative.Phathiswa also dives into the cultural and commercial power of people of influence. Influencer Marketing isn’t a trend; it’s a strategic lever for building community, shaping identity, and driving authentic product adoption. The real opportunity lies in collaboration: not “influencers vs. traditional media,” but an integrated ecosystem where both work together to move culture and business forward.Follow our guest: https://tr.ee/13y7CGFollow Us On: Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqI TikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1 LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#IMCxStyleID #StyleIDApproved #NextGenMarketing
In this episode of The Business of Influence IMC Series, we sat down with Zain Naidoo, Head of Digital & Social Marketing at Dis-Chem, to unpack the real power of marketing in driving consumer behaviour and brand loyalty.Zain shares how marketing continues to shape everyday decisions, from what we wear to what we drive and why every successful purchase begins long before a consumer walks into a store. He also discusses how Dis-Chem has evolved its approach to meet the needs of today’s diverse customer base, emphasising the importance of understanding audiences beyond the umbrella view.From shifting media channels to customer-first strategies, this episode reminds us that great marketing isn’t just about selling products, it’s about influencing culture, creating trust, and driving business growth.Watch the full episode to discover why at Dis-Chem, you don’t just shop, you buy more.Follow our guest: https://tr.ee/oBdsXyFollow Us On: Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqI TikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1 LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0
In this episode of The Business of Influence, filmed at the IMC Conference, Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank, joins Leroy Marc to unpack what marketing truly means at the heart of a legacy brand.From redefining competition beyond traditional banks to embracing content creators and AI-driven innovation, Khensani breaks down how marketing drives growth, purpose, and creativity within one of South Africa’s oldest financial institutions.Discover how Nedbank balances creativity, data, technology, and sustainability to stay relevant in a digital-first economy and why the future of marketing is about trust, purpose, and letting the public co-create your brand story.Watch the full conversation and join the dialogue on how marketing continues to evolve in the age of creativity, content, and community.Follow our guest: https://tr.ee/RyCHtvFollow Us On: Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqI TikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1 LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#IMCxStyleID #StyleIDApproved #NextGenMarketing
In this episode of The Founder’s Desk, we sit down with Lindo Mkhize to unpack the art and grind of New Business Mining or as we like to call it, bringing home the bacon. From spotting the right opportunities to building trust with potential clients, Lindo shares what it really takes to grow the business pipeline in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. Expect sharp insights, a few hard truths, and plenty of gems for anyone trying to turn connections into contracts. If you’re in sales, strategy, or just hungry to level up your business acumen, this one’s for you.Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations straight from The Founder’s Desk, where we get real about the business of influence.Follow our guest, Lindokuhle Mkhize: https://tr.ee/hVKu8RFollow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#FoundersDesk #TheBusinessOfInfluence #StyleIDApproved
In this episode of The Business of Influence, Melusi Mhlungu joins us to unpack one of the biggest shifts in modern marketing: people buy into people, not brands.From building trust through influencer partnerships to redefining how consumers connect with authenticity, Melusi shares his perspective on why human connection sits at the heart of every powerful brand story. Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations shaping culture, commerce, and digital influence. Follow our guest @adverttownFollow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0
What's truly bubbling under the surface of the marketing industry? 🤔We asked Dale Hefer, CEO of the IMC, on The Business of Influence Podcast, and her answers were eye openers! In this powerful debut episode, we sit down with industry authority Dale Hefer to discuss the foundational principle of modern commerce: Marketing is Business. Dale provides an unfiltered, C-Suite perspective on why marketing is no longer a cost centre but the primary engine for growth in this industry. Get ready to absorb strategic clarity on how top executives are leveraging influence, data, and cultural relevance to drive valuation and lead the market.Connect with Style ID AfricaListen on Spotify: https://tr.ee/S4pAYjFollow on Instagram: https://tr.ee/eMEiwpFollow on TikTok: https://tr.ee/H6AEPQFollow Our GuestConnect with Dale Hefer: https://tr.ee/LMlFU0#TheBusinessOfInfluence #IMCxStyleID #StylelDApproved #nextgenmarketing
Podcasting isn’t just audio; it’s a movement. In this episode of The Business of Influence, we sat down with Zimasa “Mooshtaffa” Vabaza, a dynamic media strategist and socio-political commentator, to explore how podcasts are shaping culture, sparking conversations, and giving rise to new forms of influence in South Africa.From monetisation and niche communities to authenticity vs. performance, Zimasa breaks down how creators are turning microphones into platforms for impact, insight, and clout. He also shares his journey building #SHSI, bite-sized videos that educate, provoke thought, and engage audiences across digital spaces.Whether you’re a creator, media professional, or just curious about the power of podcasting, this episode will inspire you to think differently about influence, storytelling, and the future of South African media.Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations shaping culture, commerce, and digital influence.Follow our guest @Mooshtaffa Follow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0
What happens when the corner office isn’t the dream anymore? In this episode of The Business of Influence, we sit down with Tank, a creative powerhouse who has lived both sides of the hustle — the corporate boardroom and the cultural frontlines.We unpack why today’s generation is rewriting the rules of success, choosing purpose, passion, and impact over traditional paychecks. From navigating career pivots to building work that feels meaningful, Tank shares raw insights into how influence, creativity, and entrepreneurship are shaping a new definition of success.If you’ve ever questioned whether the 9-to-5 grind is worth it or wondered how to align your career with what truly drives you, this episode is your blueprint for building a life that matters.Subscribe now for more stories on culture, influence, and the future of work. Follow our guest @TankisoMakheneFollow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0
Not every campaign is a win, but every flop comes with its own lesson. In this episode, we sit down with Brenda Ulay, who is a Global Social Media Manager, to unpack the campaigns that missed the mark and explore why they didn’t land as intended.From cultural missteps to strategy gaps, Brenda shares her global perspective on what brands and creators can learn from failure and how to bounce back smarter, sharper, and stronger.Tune in for an honest, respectful debrief on the campaigns that flopped, and the insights every marketer, creator and brand builder needs to know. Follow our guest Brenda Ulay: https://tr.ee/f7NuBF Follow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#InfluencerMarketing #ContentStrategy #CampaignDebrief #CreatorEconomy
A new era of beauty is unfolding, one where African excellence leads, innovates, and redefines the global narrative. In this episode of The Business of Influence, we sit down with trailblazers Lisa and Kevin, two powerhouse South African founders transforming skin and hair culture through science, storytelling, and self-determination.These are brands born from heritage, science, and an unwavering commitment to serve communities that have long been overlooked. From skincare that resonates with melanin-rich tones to haircare grounded in culture and chemistry, this is where impact meets influence.These are the pioneers challenging Eurocentric standards, reshaping retail, and proving that local can be luxurious, and heritage can be high-tech.If you’ve ever dreamed of building a beauty brand, or you're passionate about representation, innovation and legacy, this one’s for you.The future of beauty is African. And it’s already here.Subscribe to follow the movement and don’t forget to like, share, and join the conversation in the comments.Follow our guests @lisamadibe and @kevinkalilkevartFollow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0
Season 3 of The Business of Influence is here, and we’re spicing things up!Join Leroy & Tami in the kitchen as they serve real talk and hot takes, recapping standout moments from Seasons 1 & 2, and giving you a sneak peek of what’s cooking in the new season. Expect your favourite personalities to make an appearance, deeper insights and fresh conversations on the evolving world of influence in 2025!Subscribe, tag a friend and drop a comment below on what you want to see this season!Listen & Follow Us:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0
In this episode of The Founder’s Desk, Maishe gets candid about what it really takes to build, scale and sustain a business, starting with people. From hiring for growth to navigating a multi-generational workplace, this conversation unpacks the human side of entrepreneurship.Expect sharp insights, honest reflections and real talk about leadership, culture and the evolving world of work. The Founder’s Desk is where the minds behind Style ID Africa share what it means to lead in the ever-evolving creator economy.Subscribe for more conversations from The Founder’s Desk, where leadership meets lived experience.Follow our guest, Maishe Masigo: https://tr.ee/PkXFNfFollow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#FoundersDesk #TheBusinessOfInfluence #StyleIDApproved
In this week’s episode of The Founder’s Desk, Tami Ruschin sat down with Zandile Khulu, Client Service Lead at Style ID Africa, an industry force known for her sharp client intuition and people-first approach. Together, they unpack what it really means to understand clients beyond briefs, KPIs, and deliverables.From decoding client behaviour to building trust and navigating complex expectations, this conversation explores the art and empathy behind lasting partnerships in business.Whether you’re a marketer, founder, or creative leader, this episode offers practical insight into what it takes to keep clients not just happy but heard.Tune in, take notes, and share your thoughts in the comments.Subscribe for more conversations from The Founder’s Desk, where leadership meets lived experience.Follow our guest, Zandile Khulu: https://tr.ee/0wqu2qFollow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#FoundersDesk #TheBusinessOfInfluence #StyleIDApproved
In this episode of The Founder’s Desk, we sit down with Lindo Mkhize to unpack the art and grind of New Business Mining or as we like to call it, bringing home the bacon. From spotting the right opportunities to building trust with potential clients, Lindo shares what it really takes to grow the business pipeline in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. Expect sharp insights, a few hard truths, and plenty of gems for anyone trying to turn connections into contracts. If you’re in sales, strategy, or just hungry to level up your business acumen, this one’s for you.Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations straight from The Founder’s Desk, where we get real about the business of influence.Follow our guest, Lindokuhle Mkhize: https://tr.ee/hVKu8RFollow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#FoundersDesk #TheBusinessOfInfluence #StyleIDApproved
Every great business starts with a strong foundation. But what does that foundation really look like? Join us for the very first episode of Foundations from the Founder's Desk, where CEO Tami pulls back the curtain on her own entrepreneurial journey. She shares the untold stories and hard-earned lessons behind her success. From navigating challenges to seizing opportunities, this episode is packed with the wisdom you need to build your own legacy.Follow Tami on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tami_blend_ruschin/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tami-ruschin/#FoundersDesk #Leadership #Entrepreneurship
In South Africa, November, December and January are like the Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the year and we want to prep you in style. With the festive season on the rise, we're thinking about tropical beaches, luscious mountainscapes and all the best road trips. But how do you navigate this as an influencer? If you've taken our advice all season, you'll eventually reach the point where a brand might fly, drive or cruise you out to a lovely locale for a shoot, campaign, or special project. In our latest episode, we walk you through everything you need to know about the perfect brand trip as well as the alternative ways you can break into the travel influencer niche. It's not all planes and luxury resorts but you could go racing or eating your way there too.Lastly, we'd like to thank you for sticking with us this first season. Season 2 is on the horizon and we're ready to get even deeper into the influencer marketing industry. Our DMs and inboxes are always open for your questions or perhaps you'd like to suggest our next guest?Happy holidays,Leroy & Tami
The Business of Influence is a production of Style ID Africa. Visit www.styleid.co.za to learn more. You can reach us directly at info@styleid.co.za Stay in touch with our hosts! Tami Ruschin: https://www.instagram.com/tami_blend_... Leroy Marc: https://www.instagram.com/leroymarcn/
This week's episode is a big one: we're talking about money! We've all seen influencers earn thousands and millions but as high as our earning potential can be, it's not always consistent.
Between 40-day payment periods to freelancer tax or the months when income just isn't as consistent, you need to be able to stay afloat throughout it all.
We get into budgeting tips, when and if you should register as a business, what expenses you can write-off, and bootstrapping to fund your career. We can't wait to hear from you, of course. Our inboxes are always open. Feel free to share your tips, tricks, frustrations and joys about navigating your bottom line as an influencer or content creator.
Do you have nifty ideas for making your money stretch further? Are you registered for freelancer tax or turnover tax? Do you even know where to start? Let's chat!
The Business of Influence is a production of Style ID Africa. Visit www.styleid.co.za to learn more. You can reach us directly at info@styleid.co.za
Stay in touch with our hosts!
Tami Ruschin: https://www.instagram.com/tami_blend_...
Leroy Marc: https://www.instagram.com/leroymarcn/
So you've finally done it! You've built an audience, you've made the right connections and now you're about to begin your first brand partnership. But how much of the contract do you actually understand? Usage fees, duration, breach - oh my!
In the latest episode of The Business of Influence, we're breaking down influencer agreements, settling disputes and making sure you don't get into trouble with any advertising regulators.
Our guest this week Katleho Mokhosi, Director & Partner at Nhlapo Mokhosi Inc Attorneys, specialises in media & entertainment law, family law, and contractual drafting amongst a few and chats to Leroy about the complicated, confusing world of contracts. Tune in to get a breakdown.
Our podcast has been recorded for the purpose of education and entertainment and should not be regarded as personal legal advice - it’s important that we note that.
As always, if you have any questions about our show or topics you’d like us to discuss in a future, please feel free to reach out on social media or email at info@styleid.co.za
Yours faithfully,
Tami & Leroy
Have you ever thought about who the oldest influencer in the world is? Or what the life cycle of an influencer looks like? Where should you career if you don't quit or get cancelled. In the latest episode of The Business of Influence Podcast, we look at all the ways you can use your time as an influencer or content creator to pivot to new and exciting careers. Perhaps it's starting your own fashion brands like our guest, Brett Robson the founder of Shop Brett Robson and co-founder of Imprecca. Brett chats to Leroy about her journey from blogging in the 2010s to make the leap and starting her own business. Imprecca is an influencer favourite and Brett shares how she's utilised her community and affiliate marketing to build one of South Africa's most popular fashion brands. If entrepreneurship isn't up your alley, we also look at how you can transfer your skills to a career in TV or digital marketing and more.
We're super excited to present the latest episode of the Business of Influence Podcast because this one's really for everyone. In today's world, everyone needs to establish a personal brand - a uniquely YOU image in the online and professional realms. Your personal brand can be the key to leverage your LinkedIn profile into a successful career or standing out in a saturated market as a content creator. Tune in to learn more about:
What is a personal brand
How to define your personal brand through your interests, skills and experience
How to craft a personal image and manage your reputation
Defining your unique selling point and turning it into income
As always, we can't wait to chat to you all about it! And if you have any questions or ideas for our next episode, please feel free to reach out on social media or email at info@styleid.co.za
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