Ep 7. From Operator to CEO: Why Leadership Is a Different Job Entirely #foundersdesk

In this episode of Founder’s Desk, hosted by Tami Ruschin, Mike Hewan, CEO of LIFT FIT, unpacks his journey from marketing entrepreneur to leading one of South Africa’s growing activewear brands.From building his agency, Ninja Puppy, to stepping into the CEO role at LIFT FIT, Mike shares the realities of transitioning into leadership, scaling a brand and building a business rooted in accountability, community and consistency.This conversation explores the difference between working in a business and working on it, the importance of operational excellence, and why sustainable growth requires clear communication, strong systems and a deep understanding of your customer.Mike also unpacks LIFT FIT’s evolving retail strategy, the role of community in modern brand building and his vision for positioning the brand as attainable premium activewear in an increasingly competitive market.At its core, this is a conversation about leadership, growth and what it takes to build a brand that lasts.If you are interested in entrepreneurship, retail strategy, e-commerce, brand building or modern leadership, this is a conversation worth your time.Business of Influence is brought to you by Style ID Africa.—Enjoyed the podcast? Join the conversation by using the #FoundersDeskListen & Follow UsApple: https://tr.ee/7S9Qw2RYaBSpotify: https://tr.ee/8yFVYiInstagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0Follow Our Host & GuestTami: https://www.instagram.com/tami_blend_ruschin/Mike: https://www.instagram.com/mikehewan/Lift Fit: https://www.instagram.com/liftfit.sportswear/Email: [email protected] Produced by Emcee: https://www.instagram.com/emceeiii/#BrandBuilding #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #RetailStrategy #Ecommerce #Activewear #SouthAfricanBusiness