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The Lead Creative

Author: Mongezi Mtati

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The Lead Creative podcast hosts a series of conversations with great minds behind some of the leading brands, businesses, organisations and top ideas that we all love. From advertising thought leaders, forward-thinking brand leaders, innovative digital marketing minds to content creators - the podcast gives into what makes the world engage with some of the top brands. Founded and hosted by Mongezi Mtati, the podcast shares analysis, trends, and strategic intelligence.
61 Episodes
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In this episode, we sit down with Veli Ngubane, of Avatar Agency Group, to explore how diversity isn't just a buzzword in marketing and business—it's the secret sauce to their explosive growth and creative success. From a team of over 100 people to a powerhouse of over 300 talented creative minds, Avatar's journey is a testament to the transformative power of embracing varied perspectives.Veli shares candid insights into how mixing different backgrounds, thoughts, and cultures fuels creativity and innovation that resonate across global markets. Key takeaways: Embracing diverse perspectives is key to innovative solutions in marketing.The fusion of AI and human creativity sets the stage for a new era of marketing.Creativity has a significant impact on business growth and brand success.Personalisation in marketing requires a balance between data protection and delivering personalised content at scale.Building a diverse and inclusive creative industry requires recognising and celebrating the unique voices and talents of individuals.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
In this thought-provoking episode of the Lead Creative Podcast, host Mongezi Mtati engages with Lebo Madiba, founder and managing director of PR Powerhouse, to delve deep into the art of brand storytelling. Madiba illustrates this with compelling examples, including the remarkable journey of Checkers Sixty60 and SweepSouth, showcasing how these brands have seamlessly integrated their stories into the everyday lives of their customers, thus building brand loyalty and trust.Discussion points to look out for:Brand storytelling is a powerful way to build resonance with customers, stakeholders, and communities.Authenticity and consistency are key in brand storytelling.Brand storytelling should be a holistic approach that aligns with the overall business strategy.Brand storytelling can contribute to brand loyalty and can be used in times of crisis.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeFollow us on:X (Twitter)InstagramFacebookYouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Explore the fusion of global innovation and African creativity with H&M South Africa in this insightful episode. Host Mongezi Mtati talks with Caroline Nelson, CEO, about H&M's transformative retail journey since 2015, highlighting key collaborations with local designers like Palesa Mokubung, Rich Mnisi, and Neimil. Discover the behind-the-scenes of these partnerships, H&M's commitment to South African culture, and the significant role of AI in fashion sustainability. Learn about H&M's successful integration with Superbalist, enhancing online shopping experiences. Dive into a discussion that celebrates leadership, creativity, and the impactful blend of global and local design perspectives.Insights to look out for: The importance of leadership in fostering creativity and catalysing change within the fashion industry.H&M South Africa's commitment to making fashion accessible and celebrating South African urban culture through support for local designers.The fruitful partnership with Superbalist – enhancing H&M's online presence and customer convenience in South Africa.The pivotal role of AI in revolutionising supply chain management and advancing sustainability within fashion.The value of external creative collaborations in injecting innovation and diverse perspectives into H&M's brand narrative. The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the intersection of technology, marketing, and creativity is not just inevitable; it's essential. Brands and spaces that interface with consumers are undergoing profound transformation through this powerful combination, leading to unprecedented innovation and deeper customer engagement. Musa Kalenga, the Group CEO of Brave Group and the author of "Ladders & Trampolines" as well as his latest publication, "The Brave Code," shares invaluable insights into this transformative blend.The discussion also covers:Collaboration between marketers and technologists is essential for solving complex problems.Shared value is a concept that emphasizes the importance of creating value for all stakeholders.The rise of streaming has led to a decline in traditional ads, requiring brands and agencies to adapt.Technology can enhance brand engagement by heightening the senses and creating immersive experiences.AI-driven insights should be balanced with creative instincts to create effective advertising campaigns.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
The digital landscape is continuously evolving, from the transformative role of AI to its impact on the future of digital marketing and the creative industry. Bra Willy Seyama, a seasoned specialist in digital marketing and analytics, unpacks some of the complexities of navigating brand safety amidst the rapidly changing dynamics of social media platforms, with a special focus on X (previously Twitter). Seyama's insights highlight the critical need for brands to meticulously manage their online presence to safeguard their reputation.Key points to look out for:Navigating Brand Safety in the Shifting Social Media Landscape: Essential for brand integrity in a dynamic digital world.The Imperative of AI Literacy: A must for marketers to leverage technology for innovation and efficiency.Harnessing AI for Enhanced Customer Experiences: AI's power to personalize interactions boosts engagement and loyalty.The Importance of Meaningful Metrics: Selecting metrics that align with brand goals is key to measuring marketing success.Adapting to the AI Revolution: Staying updated with AI advancements is crucial for creative innovation and strategic marketing advantage.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Brands wrestle with the idea of increasing sales and building brand equity, which is often exacerbated by a tough economy. In this episode, a seasoned Marketing Strategist and the CEO of Kantar, South Africa, Ivan Moroke delves into the latest findings to share why brand equity allows brands to withstand economic downturns.Sharing findings from the 2023 Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable South African Brands Report, Ivan unpacks the value of difference and salience as aspects that enable companies with strong brands to remain top of mind. He mentions Woolworths, FNB, Nando’s and others as South African brands that leverage their difference to win more share-of-wallet, even in difficult times.Would you like to stand out in your marketing efforts? Hit play! Some key points include:Navigating personalization in marketing while respecting consumer privacy.The balance between global brand identity and local market relevance.How local brands can leverage findings from the Kantar BrandZ in their strategies.A thought-provoking question for Jeff Bezos on his marketing approach.Adapting global brand strategies to fit local market contexts.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
In this episode, Brent Lindeque, the founder of Good Things Guy, shares insights on building a platform that connects communities and remaining relevant in the ever-changing digital landscape.  He emphasises the importance of authenticity and values in brand partnerships and highlights the power of partnerships and giving back. Brent also discusses the exciting trends of TikTok and vidcasting in the influencer space. Overall, his strategy is to lead with kindness and consistency, creating a feeling of hope and optimism through Good Things Guy.Key takeawaysBe open to change and consistently evolve to remain relevant in the digital landscape.Choose brand partnerships that align with your values and focus on your community.Authenticity and context are key in brand partnerships, allowing the content creator to use their unique voice to deliver the message.Building a community requires consistency, authenticity, and a focus on inspiring and connecting with individuals.Exciting trends in the influencer space include TikTok and vidcasting, which offer new opportunities for creativity and engagement.Follow Brent Lindeque’s work and thinking on:Good Things GuyLinkedInXFacebookThe Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
The ever-evolving media consumption landscape affects advertising spend, changes consumer behaviour and impacts brand engagement. PwC's Entertainment and Media Outlook Report has been tracking media consumption trends since 2010, providing insights for brands to make informed advertising and marketing decisions.In this episode, Charles Stuart, PwC South Africa's Entertainment and Media Partner, sheds light on the latest findings. He shares that over the past 13 years, consumers and internet users have shifted from wanting to own content to prioritising access. He also shares insights on the growth of podcast advertising in South Africa – from R157 million to R232 million by 2027, an 8.2% compound annual growth rate.These and other topics form part of our latest episode, offering a deeper understanding of media consumption and advertising trends in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
In the ever-evolving customer landscape, brands and agencies face the constant challenge of staying ahead of the curve. This episode features insights from Sechaba Motsieloa, a distinguished Marketing Director and Chartered Marketer, who brings a wealth of experience from working with global brands.With a remarkable career that includes roles at SAB, Kimberly-Clark, McDonald’s, and more, Sechaba shares his unique perspectives on the transformative impact of AI in marketing and advertising. He also emphasises the importance of fostering collaborative client-agency relationships to navigate the complexities of the dynamic customer landscape. Follow Sechaba Motiseloa's thoughts and insights on:XLinkedInThe Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Signal Over Noise: How to Stand Out on Social Media as a CreativeIn today's noisy world, it can be difficult to stand out as a creative person. But Emmy award-winning founder and CEO of The Futur, Chris Do, has mastered the art of creating content that cuts through the clutter and builds an engaged community.In this episode, Chris shares his insights on how to stand out on social media as a creative person. He discusses his strategy, what he's learned from his experiences, and how to ensure that your content resonates with audiences.Chris also emphasises the importance of focusing on your community instead of chasing virality. He believes that building a strong community is the key to long-term success on social media and beyond.If you're a creative person, an entrepreneur, or someone who wants to stand out in your space, this episode is for you.For more of Chris Do’s insights, on the following links:Follow Chris Do on X Subscribe to The Futur on YouTube Follow him on LinkedIn Visit The Futur’s websiteListen and subscribe to his podcast on Spotify – or where you get podcastsThe Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Collaborating with multinational brands helps independent creatives to grow their businesses and reach more audiences. Bonolo Chepape, founder and Creative Director of Lulasclan, has worked with many recognisable brands, adding her distinct signature as a multi-talented textile and graphic designer.Bonolo has collaborated with Nando’s, Smeg, Mr Price Home and many others enabling them to stand out with her unique creative approach. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:Do your research. Understand the values of the brands you admire and ensure that your work aligns with their aesthetic and mission.Create a portfolio that showcases your best work. Highlight your unique skills and perspective.Reach out to brands. Don't be afraid to send a cold email or connect with someone on LinkedIn.Set a paid social media budget. Set aside a budget to market your work on social media and other digital platforms.Chepape shares thoughts on the importance of African creatives championing their design aesthetic and telling their stories through their work."As African creatives, we have a responsibility to champion our design aesthetic and tell our stories through our work," she says. "Together, we can embed it into art and history."Bonolo also posed questions to fellow creatives Thebe Magugu, Laduma Ngxokolo of MaXhosa, and Bathu, about their approach to work, business growth, and the creative process.Audio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Building an engaged community is essential for creators to spread their message and contribute to their chosen cause. But what does it take to build a great community?In this episode, we chat with Fred Roed, founder and CEO of Heavy Chef, a learning platform for entrepreneurs. Fred shares his insights on how to build a community of 50,000+ engaged members.Fred's sentiment, like our previous conversation with Mashudu Modau, is that focusing on your community and the value you provide are the cornerstones of growth and sustainability.Over the years, Fred and his team have found some key sponsors to add value to their cause. They've also learned a lot about what it takes to keep their community members engaged and coming back for more.If you're looking to build a thriving community, this episode is packed with valuable insights.For more of Fred Roed’s insights:Follow his latest adventures on his site.Join Heavy Chef.Follow him on X or LinkedIn.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Solving complex societal challenges requires collaboration and diversity of thought. Lesley Williams, CEO of Tshimologong Precinct, has been connecting creative, business, and other minds for over two decades to build solutions to these challenges.In this episode, Lesley Williams shares insights and practical advice on how to: Bring people together from different backgrounds and disciplines.Create an environment where collaboration can thrive.Implement successful collaborations."When seeking transformative change, be prepared to collaborate with unlikely allies. Diversity of thought can be your greatest asset." ~ Lesley Williams, CEO: Tshimologong PrecinctWhy you should listen:If you're a creative, business professional, marketer, or advertiser interested in learning how to use collaboration to positively impact the world, this episode is for you. Lesley Williams' insights and advice are essential for anyone who wants to build bridges and create transformative change.For more insights by Lesley Williams follow her on:LinkedIn XHer website hereThe Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Monetizing content creation is an art, and like all art, its brilliance lies in authenticity. Alphi Mkhwanazi, a maestro admired on TikTok, Instagram, and beyond, is a testament to this. His work has led to collaborations with many top brands, including MultiChoice, Mercedes-Benz, African Bank, and DSTV. Alphi doesn't just create; he crafts narratives that captivate.What sets him apart in this saturated landscape? A keen understanding of his unique offering and a knack for aligning with brands that amplify his essence.The #KFCWedding phenomenon? It wasn't just a viral moment; it was a testament to Alphi's magnetic resonance.And a note for the insiders: While many creators prefer to work directly with brands, Alphi swears by agencies, finding them adept at executing campaigns more efficiently.Are you eager to decode the essence of genuine brand-influencer collaborations? Would you like to understand the delicate balance between passion and profit? Dive in. This episode is a masterclass in digital artistry.Hit 'play' and let Alphi's journey inspire yours. To find out more about Alphi's content and work, click here to visit his website.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Establishing a trusted personal brand while growing a creative agency is no simple task. In this episode, we explore the journey of WOW Media founder, Mpho Monareng, and discover how he's successfully navigated these waters.From Creative to TV StarMpho's career has seen him build Toast Media, a noteworthy independent creative agency, and later, WOW Media. But he didn't stop there. This powerhouse balanced his agency work with TV appearances, collaborating with eminent brands like Klipdrift, Iwisa, Bioplus, Capitec, and more.Wrestle Doubt and Embrace ValueMpho resonates with many creatives as he too faces challenges negativity and imposter syndrome. His message? "Believe in your craft; if you see its value, let no one diminish it, not even yourself.”Generative AI: A Creative PartnerWe also discuss the role of Generative AI in the realm of creativity, especially tools like ChatGPT, opening doors to unexplored platforms.Tune In Now!Eager to gather more insights from Mpho Monareng's intriguing journey? Click play to listen to the full episode. Don't miss out!The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
In a noisy marketplace, brands need innovative ways to reach their audiences. Enter the creator economy, a growing ecosystem valued at $104 billion in 2021 and projected to surpass $227 billion by 2025. These creators are both influential and trusted by their communities. This offers brands an opportunity to resonate with consumers.Join us in the latest episode of The Lead Creative, where digital marketer and podcaster Lebo Lion shares how brands can foster genuine connections that yield results. Uncover the potential of the creator economy in this episode. For more insights, explore Lebo Lion's website or engage with her on social platforms.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
In this episode, creative activist and founder of Number 10 – A Creative Consultancy, Ahmed Tilly, shares why brave and provocative advertising is so important for brands. He argues that marketers who do work that doesn't stand out should be fired.From turning 1st For Women into a household name to globalizing Nando's spicy voice, Tilly knows how to make brands unforgettable. He has also judged, and won, advertising and creative awards at some of the most prestigious shows including the Loeries and Cannes Lions. Tilly tells Mongezi Mtati that there is still room for brave advertising that evokes an emotional response.Ahmed Tilly says that marketers who play it safe are missing a huge opportunity. "When you know who you are as a brand," he says, "it's easier to communicate it and for consumers to understand you."The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
Actor, playwright, and director Sello Maake kaNcube shares his secrets to longevity in the creative industries, including his work on the soapie Generations as Archie Moroka.  He talks about the importance of constant self-assessment, staying true to yourself, and using social media to reach a wider audience.Sello Maake kaNcube also stresses the importance of staying true to yourself and your art. "Don't try to be someone you're not," he says. "The world needs your unique perspective."The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
In today's tough economy, brands and consumers are facing unprecedented challenges. Unemployment is high, inflation is soaring, and people are feeling the pinch. As a result, some brands may be tempted to scale back their advertising, marketing, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate social investment (CSI) efforts. However, this approach could be counterproductive. In this episode, Refilwe Maluleke, the CSO of TBWA\SA and MD of Yellowwood, explains why it's important for brands to stay authentic and consistent with their brand promise, even during economic downturns. She cites examples of companies like Apple, First For Women, and Nando's, which have all maintained their core values and built strong customer loyalty as a result.Maluleke also discusses how brands can effectively use their CSR initiatives to show what they stand for. She argues that CSR can be a powerful way to connect with consumers and build trust during difficult times.Listen to this episode to learn more about the importance of keeping your brand strong during economic downturns.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
A strong personal brand in the creative, media and other industries helps to position you and enables your work to reach a wider audience. Podcaster, broadcaster, media personality and producer, Sol Phenduka built his brand over time and continues to make waves in various spaces. “Focus on your strengths, pursue your passions and engage in activities that truly make you happy."  ~ Sol Phenduka, Media Personality, Podcaster and ProducerWe discuss his return following a hiatus from the media industry and how he rebuilt his craft, where he now co-hosts the 959 Breakfast on Kaya. He attributes some of his success to luck, authenticity and being more open to sharing a human experience that is not sanitised. The Podcast And Chill co-host says it’s important to understand and stay true to your community, which they stuck to while navigating some of the complexities of engaging on social media. Similar to some of our previous episodes, Phenduka highlights the importance of testing your ideas with various people and exploring as many platforms as possible.The Lead Creative Podcast is available on:AppleSpotifyStitcherGoogle PodcastsYouTubeOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.Follow The Lead Creative on:TwitterInstagramFacebook   YouTubeAudio editing and production by: Maishe RakgoaleSignup for our newsletter to get the latest updates.
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