PODCAST · business
Marketing Masterclasses
by Engage Video Group
Your fireside‑chat podcast powered by Engage Video Group, where data‑driven creativity meets human-centred storytelling 💪Each episode features candid conversations with leading voices from global brands and top educational institutions.Hosted by Jon Ratcliffe (Founder, ex‑Google/YouTube) and Declan Hollywood (Chief Growth Officer), as well as EVG’s Business Development Executives, the series brings together inspiring guests from diverse backgrounds, from financial services to creative tech, media, and global communications.
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124. From Agency Life to Building a Sustainable Brand: with Sealand Gear CEO, Adrian Hewlett
Adrian Hewlett’s career journey has taken him from the world of marketing and entrepreneurship to leading one of South Africa’s most respected sustainable lifestyle brands, Sealand Gear.In this episode, Adrian sits down with Declan to unpack what it really takes to build a purpose driven business in today’s world. They speak about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, building great teams, staying disciplined, leading with authenticity, and creating brands that people genuinely connect with.The conversation also explores sustainable business practices, mentorship, relationships, and why playing the long game matters more than ever.It is a grounded and honest conversation with practical lessons on business, branding, and life.
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123. Marketing is not just data it is people: with Zain Naidoo, Head of Digital and Social at Dis-Chem Pharmacies
In a world full of dashboards, metrics, and AI tools, it is easy to forget who marketing is really for.In this episode, Zain Naidoo, Head of Digital and Social at Dis-Chem Pharmacies, brings the focus back to people. Zain sits down with Declan to unpack how social media has changed the way brands connect with customers, why creativity still matters even when data is everywhere, and how brands can stay relevant when attention spans are shorter than ever.He shares his perspective on working with creators, building trust with audiences, and finding the balance between performance and brand.This is a real and honest conversation about what actually works in marketing today and what does not.
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122. What does it take to go global in the age of attention? Lee Nelson, Head of Marketing & Communications at DHL eCommerce
What does it take to market in a world where attention is the most valuable currency?In this episode of Marketing Masterclass, Lee Nelson, Head of Marketing & Communications at DHL eCommerce, shares with Jon how DHL is helping small businesses grow beyond their borders and compete on a global stage.Lee reflects on her journey into marketing, from handing out Red Bull as a student to leading global marketing, and how her role today is focused on positioning DHL as a partner for cross-border growth.The conversation also explores the reality of modern marketing, from social media and the attention economy to the importance of being useful rather than just visible, as well as leadership, purpose, and why being human matters more than ever.
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121. Why Great Marketers Are Built, Not Born: Sasha Sathianathan, Senior Brand Manager at RCL Foods
Few careers follow a straight line, and Sasha's journey into marketing is no exception.In this episode of the Marketing Masterclass, Loren sits down with Sasha Sathianathan, the Senior Brand Manager at RCL Foods.From starting out in chemical engineering to building brands at Unilever, Mondelez, and now RCL Foods, Sasha shares her journey into marketing and how she found her place at the intersection of people, creativity, and commercial impact.They chat about what it really means to be a brand custodian, how to balance consistency with staying culturally relevant, and why thinking like a business owner is so important. Sasha also shares her honest take on AI as a tool, not a replacement, along with her approach to leadership and building confident, accountable teams.It’s a thoughtful, down-to-earth conversation with plenty of practical takeaways for marketers at any stage.
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120. Building Brands Across Cultures with Rachel Moffett, the Regional Marketing Manager Mövenpick Hotel
Straight out of South Africa and into a completely new culture, Rachel Moffett began building a career in marketing far from home.In this episode of Marketing Masterclass, Rachel, Regional Marketing Manager at Mövenpick Hotel, joins Nicole to share how that journey shaped her approach to marketing, leadership, and working across cultures.They talk about navigating global markets, the move into hospitality, and why clarity plays such an important role in building strong teams and brands. Rachel also shares her thoughts on social media, and how to use AI without losing the human touch.If you’re thinking about growth, leadership, or your next step in marketing, this is a conversation worth listening to.
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119. Why Attitude Beats Talent: The Journey and Thinking Behind Absa CMO, Sydney Mbhele
How do you go from an unexpected start to leading marketing at one of Africa’s biggest banks?In this episode of Marketing Masterclass, Sydney Mbhele, Chief Marketing Officer at Absa, shares the journey that shaped his career and the mindset that’s guided him along the way.Sydney reflects on the moments that changed his trajectory, why he believes attitude matters more than talent, and what he looks for when building teams. The conversation also explores what the role of a CMO really involves today, beyond advertising and into real business impact.If you’re thinking about growth, leadership, or your next step, this is a conversation worth listening to.
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118. Great Marketing Starts with the Question “Why”: How PepsiCo’s CMO Vilosha Soni Thinks About Brands
From engineer to CMO of PepsiCo South Africa, Vilosha Soni’s journey is anything but conventional. In this episode, she unpacks what it really takes to build iconic brands, stay relevant across generations, and lead high-performing teams at scale. You’ll learn why curiosity is a marketer’s greatest advantage, how to translate consumer insight into business impact, and why having a bias for action beats waiting for perfection. This is a masterclass in modern marketing, leadership, and thinking like an opportunist in a world full of noise.
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117. Stay Curious, Think Bigger: A Marketing Career with PepsiCo's F&B Marketing Director, Vilashni Vandayar
How do you grow into leadership in marketing?In this episode of Marketing Masterclass, Vilashni Vandayar, Marketing Director of Convenience Food and Beverages at PepsiCo, reflects on her journey from starting out in science to leading some of South Africa’s most recognisable brands.Vilashni shares the mindset that has shaped her career, from staying curious and continuously learning, to stepping into opportunities that feel bigger than you’re ready for. The conversation also touches on leadership, building teams across diverse portfolios, and why real growth often comes from uncomfortable moments.If you’re building a career in marketing or stepping into leadership, this is a conversation worth listening to.
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116. From Startup to 12 Million Customers with Lucia Malapane, Head of Brand Marketing at GoTyme Bank
What does it take to build one of South Africa’s fastest growing digital banks?In this episode of Marketing Masterclass, Lucia Malapane, Head of Brand Marketing at GoTyme Bank, shares with Declan the story behind the bank’s growth to more than 12 million customers.Lucia reflects on her journey from being part of building the business in its early days to leading the brand today, and how GoTyme Bank is rethinking banking by making it more accessible, simple, and customer focused.The conversation also explores what great marketing looks like in financial services, how brands can build trust with customers, and why young professionals should focus on learning, curiosity, and being open to opportunity.
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115. Never Stop Inventing a Better Way to Shop with Carol Feeley, Head of Creative at Ocado
What does it really mean to never stop inventing a better way to shop?In this episode, Carol Feeley, Head of Creative at Ocado, joins Declan to share what that looks like in practice at one of the UK’s leading online grocery retailers. She talks about building a brand inside a business that is deeply data driven, and why consistency and patience matter more than constantly chasing the next new idea.Carol unpacks the thinking behind Ocado’s purpose, how the Save and Splurge campaign helped reframe value in online grocery, and how she protects creative time so her team can focus on the work that truly makes an impact. She also shares why marketing should make life easier, and make people laugh.If you care about building brands that last in performance driven environments, this is a conversation worth listening to.
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114. People-First Leadership That Drives Growth with Former CEO of H&M South Africa, Caroline Nelson
Caroline is a firm believer that great businesses are built by great people. In this episode of Marketing Masterclasses, Caroline sits down with Declan to unpack what people-first leadership really looks like at scale.She dives into the balance between strategy and culture, why narrowing down the tools your team actually values matters more than chasing trends, and how embedding corporate responsibility into business operations creates lasting impact.
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113. How to Balance Soulful Storytelling with Digital Efficiency with Michaella Robertson, Head of Creative at Pure Fishing
Michaella Robertson has spent her career figuring out how to make brands matter, from big ideas to the little details that actually stick. In this episode, she joins Nicole to explore why social is a behaviour, not a channel, how AI should scale connection rather than replace it, and why the strongest creative work starts with a culture of trust. From Durban to Switzerland to leading global creative teams, Michaella shares what it takes to build brands that resonate in 2026 and beyond.
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112. Why Big Bang Marketing Is Dead: takealot.com's CMO Karla Levick on Scaling Brands, Empowering Teams, and Thinking Like a Creator
Karla Levick, Chief Marketing Officer at takealot.com, is a strong advocate for how brands must evolve in a creator-led world. In this episode, Karla sits down with Declan to chat through why brands should behave more like content creators, how to work authentically with South Africa’s creator economy, and how to build brand equity on social platforms. She also discusses consistency, trust, and why marketing success today comes from iteration and innovation.
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111. Building Joy at Scale: Inside The Crazy Store with Kevin Lennett
In this episode, Jon chats to Kevin Lennett, Managing Director of The Crazy Store, to unpack his remarkable career journey and what it takes to run one of South Africa’s most beloved retail brands.Kevin shares his unlikely entrance into retail, how a newspaper job ad changed the trajectory of his life, and why his journey across both Sportsman’s Warehouse and The Crazy Store has always come back to one thing: people. From expanding The Crazy Store from 200 to over 500 stores, to building a culture grounded in trust, consistency, and genuine human connection, Kevin offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a retail empire with heart.Kevin also reflects on legacy, leadership, South Africa’s retail landscape, and why “be kind” is the message he’d put on a billboard for the world to see.If you love stories about purpose-driven leadership, growing something meaningful, and staying human in a fast-changing world, this conversation will stay with you.
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110. Building Discipline & Creativity with Woolworths' Zach Nossel
In this inspiring episode, Declan and Zach Nossel, Head of Digital Marketing at Woolworths, unpack the unconventional, yet relatable, journey behind Zach's success.Zach shares how early lessons in discipline, teamwork, and resilience, instilled by his father on the football pitch, shaped the leader he is today. From studying law to discovering his creative calling, from winning global creative awards to jumping into the chaos of startup life, and ultimately leading Woolworths’ digital transformation over the last decade, Zach’s story is packed with wisdom for anyone carving their own career path.This is a masterclass in career growth, leadership, and modern marketing, told with honesty, energy, and heart.
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109. Does That Make Sense? Rethinking Communication and Career Moves with Booking.com's Lauren Voges
Nicole and Jamie sit down with Lauren Voges, B2B Content Marketing Manager at Booking.com, to explore the unconventional career moves that shaped her expertise.Lauren’s journey proves that what may look like a step back can actually build the depth and breadth that make a standout communicator.We talk about why asking “does that make sense?” isn’t a sign of uncertainty, but an underrated tool for creating clarity. Lauren shares how your audience can become your superpower, why letting others tell your brand's story can make it stronger, and the importance of truly understanding a message before passing it on.She also reminds us: Don’t let fear or autopilot make you miss a good opportunity.If you’ve ever questioned your career path or the way you communicate at work, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
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108. AI, Humanity, and the Art of the Impossible with Google's Gopi Kallayil at the Tutu Foundation
In this inspiring episode, Jon sits down with Gopi Kallayil, Google’s Chief Business Strategist for AI, at the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in Cape Town.From connecting Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama for their first-ever live Hangout years ago, to leading Google’s AI strategy today, Gopi shares remarkable stories of innovation, spirituality, and purpose. He reflects on lessons from Mandela, Tutu, and Silicon Valley, and explores how AI is reshaping the world as a tool to amplify human potential.Together, Jon and Gopi discuss:The “healthy disregard for the impossible” that defines Google’s culture.How AI can uplift humanity, from healthcare to climate resilience.Gopi’s personal philosophy for balance and fulfilment: the “MEDALS formula.”What it means to live a life of purpose in the age of intelligent machines.A conversation that bridges technology, ethics, and the human spirit, reminding us that progress, at its best, begins within.
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107. Consistency Over Chameleons with adidas' Roy Gardner
Declan sits down with Roy Gardner, VP - Brand Activation Europe at adidas, for a masterclass in brand clarity, curiosity, and career longevity.Roy’s journey has taken him across some of the most iconic names in sport and lifestyle, from adidas to Helly Hansen, Leeds United, Reebok, Clarks, and ultimately back to adidas, where he now leads a team of 120 people across four countries.Roy shares why consistency is one of the most powerful marketing tools a brand has, and why “chameleon-ing” across platforms only erodes trust. We explore how sticking to a core message, even while adapting to the nuances of each channel, is essential to building familiarity, integrity, and long-term customer connection.We also dig into Roy’s belief that the best marketers are, above all else, curious problem-solvers. From big strategic challenges to everyday frictions, brands grow when they continuously ask: What is our problem? And what are we going to do about it?If you’re passionate about brand-building, leadership, creative discipline, or shaping culture through sport and storytelling, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.
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106. Curiosity as a Career Strategy with Opella's Alberto Hernandez
From testing video games to leading global brands, Alberto Hernandez’s career has been defined by one thing: curiosity.He’s proof that asking “why?” (and acting on it) can lead to successful and continuous reinvention.In his words, the best marketers are “curious about people’s daily struggles.” They are in the business of solving problems in the best ways they know how.Alberto shared many valuable lessons in his chat with Declan but this one stuck with us: Be curious enough to see what’s next, and courageous enough to chase it.
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105. Redefining Brand Value with Hollard's Group CMO Hazel Chimhandamba
In this episode, Hazel Chimhandamba, CMO of Hollard Insurance, chats to Declan about what it really means to be a commercial growth enabler. From redefining brand value to leading with data-driven creativity, Hazel shares how modern marketers can build influence in the boardroom and create brands people actually love.We cover:Turning purpose into performanceBuilding operating models that drive impactCreating customer-led value propositionsProtecting and growing brand equityFollowing the eyeballs and meeting your audience where they are"Marketing belongs in the boardroom because that’s where growth happens.”
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104. From 80 million to 1.2 billion and back again with Zorros Partners' Anthony Steward
How do you grow a business from R80 million to R1.2 billion, nearly lose it, and then sell it to one of South Africa’s biggest retailers?Anthony Steward, co-founder of Medicare Health and now Zorros Partners, joins Declan to share the real story behind the numbers, including everything from the humbling lessons of over-ambition to the power of focus, trust, and vulnerability in leadership.One of the most honest, reflective conversations we’ve had yet.
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103. Building Brands that Belong with Miguel Netto, Bootlegger's Head of Marketing
From embracing agency life to knuckling down brand side, Miguel Netto’s marketing career has ticked all the boxes.As the Head of Marketing at Bootlegger, Miguel’s coffee-fueled days are focused on building a brand that doesn't advertise but rather works to belong within your lifestyle.Miguel chats to Declan about his (and Bootlegger’s) values of quality, consistency, and sustainability, and how these have been forged throughout his life and career journey - from competitive IRONMAN racing, to his role as Global B2B & Commercial Marketing Director at Aramex, to now leading a team at Bootlegger.Miguel shared many pieces of advice for aspiring marketers, including:Understand the numbers. Even if you’re a creative.Shoot your shot. Always.And, in the words of Miguel’s dad: If you’re going to miss the bus, miss the bus running. Which is to say, make it mean something 👊
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102. How AI and Behavioural Science are Changing the Future of Banking with Discovery's Jody Ashworth
What does it take to go from Intern to Award-Winning Marketer at Discovery Bank?For Jody Ashworth, it’s been about curiosity, courage, and an unshakable belief in the power of behavioural science to change how we bank.Jody shares how she’s shaping the future of financial health at Discovery Bank, from creating the brand’s beloved Discovery Bank Buddy to using AI and data to make banking more human.Tune in to hear her take on leadership, culture, and how trusting your gut can be your biggest career advantage
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101. First the Fundamentals, Then the Digital Wizardry with M&M's Alicia Jitaru
In this episode, Declan chats with Alicia Jitaru, European Digital Director for M&M’s, about what really drives great marketing in a digital world.They unpack why, despite all the new tools and tech, the fundamentals stay the same: understanding people, meeting their needs, and showing up authentically.From “digital wizardry” to emotional connection, Alicia shares how brands can create real magic with their audiences today.
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100. Chicken Farms, Ultra-Trails & Adidas: Amy Beachy Head's Marketing Journey
What do ultra-trail running and brand building have in common? For Amy Beachy Head, Adidas South Africa’s Brand Manager for Running & Outdoor, the answer is grit, authenticity, and putting people first.In this episode, Amy takes us through her journey from turning down her first marketing job at a chicken farm to leading culture-driven campaigns for one of the world’s most iconic sports brands.She shares:How running 100km through the mountains fuels her mindset and leadership styleWhy prioritising people over screens is the future of marketing and cultureLessons from the trail that apply to every marketer chasing big goalsWhether you’re a marketer, leader, or endurance junkie, Amy’s story will leave you inspired to keep pushing forward, one step (or three stripes!) at a time.
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99. Start Before You Are Ready with Bianca Liapis, Sainsbury’s Digital Marketing Manager
Bianca Liapis packed her bags, moved to London without a plan, and built a global marketing career she truly loves.In this episode, she shares the leaps of faith, moments of self-doubt, and bold mindset shifts that shaped her journey, from startups at Uber Eats to leading digital marketing at Sainsbury’s.We talk about imposter syndrome, building trust, navigating massive change, and why her personal motto is simple: “Start before you’re ready.”
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98. The Brave New World of Marketing with Danone's Nagehan Zülal Beypazar Şad
From bioengineering labs to leading global brand strategy at Danone, Nagehan Zülal Beypazar Şad has built a career shaped by purpose, creativity, and courage.In this episode, she shares her journey from agency life to global leadership, the lessons she’s learned launching innovative campaigns at Nestlé and Danone, and her take on the future of marketing, touching on everything from AI, to cultural agility, to building brands that are a force for good.Her message to all marketers? Be brave.
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97. Design a Life You Actually Want to Live with Sherilyn Shackell
Sherilyn Shackell’s journey is anything but ordinary. From running her family’s fashion store at 16, to a 20-year career in executive search, to surviving a life-threatening illness that sparked the creation of The Marketing Academy, she’s learned what it truly takes to lead a life full of joy and impact.In this episode, Sherilyn shares:The “112-hour rule” that reveals how you really spend your timeThe 10-second mindset shift that can transform your leadershipHow CMOs can, and should, step into the CEO rolePacked with hard-won wisdom and practical tools, this conversation will inspire you to take a beat, rethink your priorities, and lead with purpose.Listen now and start designing a life you actually want to live.
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96. Social Media is a Brand’s Bloodline: Lessons from Ackermans CMO Bronwyn Pretorius
Bronwyn Pretorius, CMO at Ackermans, believes that “social media is the bloodline of any brand”, and in this candid conversation, she unpacks what it really takes to build a brand that connects deeply with consumers in 2025.From her early career pivot from law into marketing, to leading campaigns at Shoprite, Capitec, Mukuru, and now Ackermans, Bronwyn’s journey is a masterclass in versatility, resilience, and people-first leadership.In this episode, we dive into:Why understanding your consumer’s life stage is the golden thread of brand buildingHow to balance AI, data, and creativity without losing the human touchLeadership lessons on striving for excellence and empowering teamsThe future of social media, content, and attention as today’s true marketing currencyPacked with insights and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for marketers, leaders, and creatives shaping the next chapter of retail and brand building.🎧 Listen now and learn from one of South Africa’s leading marketing voices.
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95. Curiosity, Courage & Compassion: Your Marketing Career Trifecta with Heineken Global Brands Director, Natasha Maharaj
Marketing isn’t about making ads anymore, it’s about being part of the culture.In this episode, we chat with Natasha Maharaj, Global Brands Director at The HEINEKEN Company, about her 20+ year journey in the industry and how she’s stayed ahead of the curve.Natasha shares why she believes we need AI along with human touch to create truly powerful marketing and how letting go of control can spark even greater creativity.
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94. Why Failure, Quirks, and Curiosity Drive Breakthroughs with Ogilvy's Vice Chairman, Rory Sutherland
“It’s not how fast you drive, it’s how late you brake.”That’s just one of the perspective-shifting insights Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman of Ogilvy UK, drops in this Marketing Masterclass with Jon Ratcliffe.From the overlooked power of long-form copy to why YouTube has become the world’s customer support hotline, Rory unpacks the quirks of human behaviour, the role of creativity in an AI-driven world, and why occasional failure is proof you’re trying hard enough.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why efficiency metrics can’t replace true creativityHow breakthrough ideas often come from lucky accidentsWhy video has become the dominant way people solve problemsThe future value of human ingenuity in the age of AIWitty, surprising, and packed with perspective-shifting ideas from one of advertising’s most original thinkers.
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93. Storytelling, Sport & Culture with Lay's Brand Manager, Aboobaker Hassim
Lay’s Brand Manager Aboobaker Hassim joins Loren and Kele to unpack what marketing means in 2025, from sports partnerships to social media, and from career pivots to the future of AI.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why storytelling is the true power of marketingHow sport and food create shared cultural momentsThe career advice that shaped Aboo’s pathWhat’s working (and not working) in today’s digital landscapeAboo's curiosity about AI and what it means for brandsThe influence of culture in creating effective localisation strategiesA candid, inspiring conversation on values, creativity, and building brands people truly connect with.
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92. Marketing Masterclass with Growth Director of Marketing at RCL, Le-Anne Bartman-Engelbrecht
Part 3 of 3 from our Speaker Series, recorded live in partnership with Red & Yellow Creative School of Business.From Unilever to PepsiCo and now Growth Director at RCL, Le-Anne Bartman Engelbrecht has built brands, led categories, and broken the internet with some of South Africa’s most viral campaigns.In this episode, she shares lessons from running billion-rand businesses, why culture must be a lived experience, and the hard truths about ROI, innovation, and staying relevant in a two-second TikTok world.Her mantra? Done is better. Hard work beats talent.
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91. Marketing Masterclass with Revlon SA's Marketing Director, Heather Goate
Marketing in 2025 demands agility, authenticity, and impact.Revlon SA’s Heather Goate shares her insights on short-form video, the creator economy, AI in marketing, and the career mindset that will set you apart.Packed with global brand experience and practical takeaways, this is a must-listen for marketers who want to stay ahead.
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90. Marketing Masterclass with VodafoneThree's Senior Conceptual Creative & Strategy Social Lead, Tom Fenwick-Smith
Your brand isn’t the hero, your audience is.In this episode of Marketing Masterclass, we sit down with Tom Fenwick-Smith, Senior Conceptual Creative & Strategy Social Lead at VodafoneThree, to explore what it really means to be social-first in today’s world.From feature films to TikTok, Tom’s journey shows how bold ideas, creator partnerships, and a willingness to take risks can transform brands.He shares:Why creators are key to building brand authenticityHow to sell risky ideas to risk-averse peopleWhy network sideways is career-changing adviceHow to turn your quirks and “weird” into your greatest USPPacked with insights on creativity, social strategy, and brand building, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the future of marketing.
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89. Marketing Masterclass with Naked's Marketing Manager, Liezel Swiegers
In this episode of Marketing Masterclasses, Declan and Rebecca sit down with Liezel Swiegers, Marketing Manager at Naked, the AI-driven insurance disruptor.Liezel shares her journey from Takealot to Naked, the lessons she’s learned building a brand that stands out in a saturated industry, and why the Naked Difference is reshaping customer relationships in insurance.Expect insights on:How to create content people want to share on social mediaWhy building in-house creative capability can be a superpowerThe hardest challenges in measuring marketing ROILeadership lessons and advice for future marketersHer personal mantra: get off the beaten trackA fresh, future-focused conversation that blends creativity, strategy, and authenticity.
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88. Marketing Masterclass with BOS Brands CEO, William Battersby
Part 2 of 3 from our Speaker Series, recorded live in partnership with Red & Yellow Creative School of Business.William Battersby knows what it takes to turn a homegrown idea into a global success. As CEO of BOS Brands, he’s led the transformation of a proudly South African iced tea into an internationally recognised brand.In this conversation with Verusha Maharaj, MD at Red & Yellow, William shares the lessons he’s learned from building brands across London, Cape Town, and beyond. From navigating the balance between storytelling and sales, to shaping company culture, to why innovation and authenticity are non-negotiable, this episode is packed with insights for students, marketers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in purposeful business growth.Listen in as William reflects on leadership, global expansion, and why your brand, not your product, is your strongest defence.
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87. Marketing Masterclass with Spur Corporation CMO, Vuyokazi Henda
Part 1 of 3 from our Speaker Series, recorded live in partnership with Red & Yellow Creative School of Business.From Unilever to her current role as CMO of Spur Corporation, Vuyokazi Henda’s story is one of courage, care, and conscious leadership.In this episode, she shares her journey across global and local brands, the lessons she’s learned about resilience and purpose, and why she believes in leaving the world a little softer. We dive into the power of discovering your gifts, choosing your arena, and leading in a way that builds both people and brands.Vuyo also talks about the future of Spur, how brands can stay relevant in a digital-first world, and the balance between heritage and innovation.An inspiring listen for anyone who cares about leadership, marketing, and making an impact that lasts.
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86. Marketing Masterclass with Sweepsouth's Head of Design, Caterina Toffoli-Metcalfe
"When one of our campaigns performs well, it’s not just numbers on a graph, it’s jobs being created and food on the table.”In this Marketing Masterclass, Caterina Toffoli-Metcalfe (Head of Design at Sweepsouth) shares how purpose-driven creativity and people-first leadership shaped her journey from Yuppiechef to Pernod Ricard, and why authentic impact matters more than ever.🎧 Listen for insights on:Why culture is built in small daily actions, not one-off eventsHow to lead with energy and empathyBalancing creativity, structure, and purpose
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85. Marketing Masterclass with Nestlé Category Marketing Manager, Zakithi Mncwango
From Estee Lauder to PepsiCo to Nestlé, Zakithi Mncwango has built some of South Africa’s most loved brands. In this episode of Marketing Masterclasses, Lara chats to Zakithi all about her journey as an “accidental marketer” and the lessons she’s learned along the way.We dive into:Why creators are the gateway to authenticity and relevanceHow consumers can spot an ad a mile awayThe role of AI in building always-on, empathetic brand enginesLeadership lessons on balancing empathy with toughnessWhether you’re a student of marketing or a seasoned professional, Zakithi’s insights on culture, creativity, and brand building will leave you inspired.
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84. Marketing Masterclass with Senior Product Marketing Manager at Tide, Katy Carter
South African-born product marketing expert Katy Carter shares her unconventional journey from yachting to leading growth at one of the UK’s fastest-growing digital banks, Tide.In this episode, Katy opens up about:Navigating competitive global marketsTurning complex financial solutions into simple, compelling storiesThe role great leadership has played in her careerExpect insights on product launches vs. adoption, working across cultures, using AI for smarter marketing, and why taking your shot matters more than you think.
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83. Marketing Masterclass with Google DeepMind Director, Rupert Kemp
From anthropology to AI at DeepMind, Rupert Kemp’s journey is anything but typical.In this episode, Jon unpacks how curiosity, kindness, and nonlinear thinking led Rupert to one of the most advanced AI teams in the world.We dive into the future of AI, why prompt engineering matters more than you think, and how tools like Gemini are reshaping everything from productivity to creativity.
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82. Marketing Masterclass with PepsiCo Senior Brand Manager, Sibongile Mndebele
People can spot inauthenticity instantly and brands are no exception.In this episode, Sibongile Mndebele shares how to build brands that truly resonate, drawing on her experience shaping iconic flavours at Simba and leading with values in a fast-paced digital world.We explore:Why authenticity is your brand’s most valuable currencyHow AI can enhance, not replace, creative thinkingThe one quality Sibo prioritizes above experience when hiringWhy “I care” is the message she wants the world to know about herTune in for a mix of practical career advice, heartfelt leadership lessons, and data-driven insights that every marketer can apply.
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81. Marketing Masterclass with the CMO of Clicks Group, Melanie Van Rooy
From academia to entrepreneurship to leading marketing for South Africa’s largest health, wellness and beauty retailer, Melanie Van Rooy’s career is a masterclass in reinvention.In this episode, the Clicks Group CMO shares her journey and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, brand building, and staying relevant in 2025.We cover:Moving from selling to solving and delivering joyBuilding trust, empathy, and value for customers and teamsWhy digital marketing is a science, not guessworkThe role of EQ in leadershipReinventing yourself at any stage of lifeWhether you’re a marketing student, a brand leader, or just navigating your next career move, Melanie’s story will inspire you to embrace change and lead with heart.
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80. Marketing Masterclass with the Head of Marketing at One Retail Group, Giulio Beltramo
Marketing isn’t about playing it safe. It’s about experimenting boldly and learning faster than your competitors.Giulio Beltramo, Head of Marketing at One Retail Group (one of the UK’s fastest-growing consumer goods and lifestyle brands), shares how creativity, curiosity, and South African grit shaped his career.From rethinking segmentation to building brands that people feel (not just buy), this episode is packed with insights for marketers ready to break the mould.
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Marketing Masterclass with Google's Head of UK Product Communications, Laurian Clemence
What’s the story? And how do we bring it to life in a way that truly connects with people?It’s the question that’s guided Laurian Clemence through 17+ years at Google, drawing on her journalism roots and passion for leadership to shape the narratives behind some of its most iconic products, from Pixel to Gemini, Search to Android.In this episode, we dive into:How Google’s culture has evolved and what makes it workLessons in leadership and developing qualities to support teamsThe art of crafting attention-worthy campaigns in a noisy worldWhy comms and marketing must move as one
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Marketing Masterclass with the Head of Brand at Urban Gym Group, Ryk Benade
“Just be lekker, and the world will be lekker.”Urban Gym Group's Head of Brand, Ryk Benade, shares his career journey, lessons in creativity, and how brands can stay relevant in a digital-first world.Tune in for insights on building culture, leading with impact, and thriving in the modern marketing era.
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76
Marketing Masterclass with Sofia Hernandez, TikTok’s Global Head of Business Marketing
Jon sits down with Sofia Hernandez, TikTok’s Global Head of Business Marketing, at Cannes to talk about creativity, leadership, and how brands can thrive in the creator economy.Sofia thinks brands need to think like marketers and act like creators. Do you agree?
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75
Marketing Masterclass with Juliette Rowlett, Senior Global Shopper Excellence Manager at the LEGO Group
How do you build an international marketing career and stay true to yourself along the way?Juliette Rowlett, a proud South African and global marketing leader at brands like Unilever and the LEGO Group, generously shares:Her journey from Durban to leading global shopper strategiesWhy “the bravest thing you can do is be yourself”How to embrace discomfort, build relationships, and grow your career abroadThis episode is packed with advice for marketers ready to take on the world and do it with curiosity, creativity, and courage!Hit play and get inspired.
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74
Marketing Masterclass with Beatrice Cornacchia, Executive VP of Marketing & Communications APEMEA at Mastercard
At Cannes Lions, Jon sat down with Beatrice Cornacchia, Executive VP of Marketing & Communications APEMEA at Mastercard, to talk about her extraordinary 35-year journey building one of the world’s most iconic brands.This episode is full of nuggets of wisdom from Beatrice. Here are just three to whet your appetite:Never take a shortcut. Dream big and go after it.Marketing is a science but the magic comes when you layer creativity on top.Be the boss of yourself. You are the only boss that you can acceptThis is for anyone looking to make bold moves and leave their mark.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Your fireside‑chat podcast powered by Engage Video Group, where data‑driven creativity meets human-centred storytelling 💪Each episode features candid conversations with leading voices from global brands and top educational institutions.Hosted by Jon Ratcliffe (Founder, ex‑Google/YouTube) and Declan Hollywood (Chief Growth Officer), as well as EVG’s Business Development Executives, the series brings together inspiring guests from diverse backgrounds, from financial services to creative tech, media, and global communications.
HOSTED BY
Engage Video Group
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