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.
47 Episodes
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The Innovation & Marketing team steps out from behind the curtain for the Season 3 finale of The Business of Influence. At the top of the season, we said we were cooking up a storm; now we’re closing the year by bringing you up close and personal with the people working behind the scenes to bring the podcast to life.In this episode, the team breaks down the real impact of Season 3: the conversations that shifted thinking and the insights that shaped how brands and creators move in today’s influence economy. From standout cultural moments to tough industry truths, we’re taking a candid look at what we got right, the key learnings and throwing it forward to Season 4Think of this as the service-level debrief: honest, reflective, and a little bit spicy.Tune in as we close the chapter and set the table for a bigger, bolder Season 4.Follow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#Season3Wrap#PodcastSeasonFinale #CreatorEconomy
AI isn’t the villain, it’s the power tool. Darren Morris breaks down why the creator economy isn’t under threat; it’s evolving. Passion still drives creativity, and IMC remains the space where marketers recalibrate, reconnect, and get honest about what’s working.Watch the full conversation now and stay ahead of the curve.Follow our guest: https://tr.ee/HGAY2JFollow Us On: Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqI TikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1 LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#IMCxStyleID #StyleIDApproved #nextgenmarketing
In this IMC Series episode, we sat down with Vaughan Croeser, Vice President of Marketing at SAB, to unpack why marketing is not a support function; it’s a strategic co-pilot. Vaughan shares why marketers should not be fighting for a seat at the table, but actively shaping direction and driving organisational growth.We explore how brand consistency, purpose alignment, and long-term strategic influence inform SAB’s approach to marketing in a rapidly evolving landscape. Vaughan also breaks down why the influencer marketing space is maturing and how SAB has formalised a rigorous, values-based influencer selection and vetting process to ensure meaningful, reciprocal partnerships instead of quick, transactional wins.If you're interested in how influence becomes real business value, this conversation is your blueprint.Follow our guest: https://tr.ee/ZOUgKuFollow Us On: Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqI TikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1 LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#IMCxStyleID #StyleIDApproved #nextgenmarketing
In this IMC segment, we chat to Dean Oelschig, Founder of Halo Advertising, as he unpacks the philosophy behind creativity in marketing. He reminds us that creativity isn’t a science, it’s intuition, emotion and instinct working together to connect brands with people.Dean challenges marketers to focus less on themselves and more on the consumer, because when creativity is useful, beautiful, or entertaining, it doesn’t just sell, it sticks.Watch now to discover why the best ideas don’t come from data, but from daring to feel first and analyse later. Don’t just market, make people care.Follow our guest: https://tr.ee/nHXztmFollow Us On: Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqI TikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1 LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0#IMCxStyleID #StyleIDApproved #nextgenmarketing
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/
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