TMC Podcast

This isn’t another “Money can’t buy happiness!” conversation. This is a piece about a personal choice Veli Phasha had to make, and some of the reasons he made it. Forgive my bluntness, that's just how I roll (see what I did, w*nk). That is why I will openly tell you that there is hunger in being a creative and that is discouraging enough for you to stop. I hope Veli's story about WHY he never stopped refuels you to unapologetically chase your dreams. Please share your ideas in the comments box and let us know what you think about TMC Podcast.

The South African music industry isn’t easy and staying true to yourself in it is even harder.On this episode of the WORD Podcast, we sit down with Honeybee_Rapqueen to talk about her journey in SA hip hop, finding her voice, and navigating relationships while building a music career. She also shares how artists can help their partners better understand the demands of the industry.Her message is clear: there’s no value in trying to be someone you’re not.If you’re chasing a creative path or figuring things out in the SA music scene, this one’s for you.

Lesedi Aiseng joins us for a conversation that challenges how we think about creativity, purpose, and self-expression.Lesedi shares insights that go far beyond the surface, reminding us that art is not about perfection - it is about expression. In a world that often pressures us to be flawless, this conversation encourages you to embrace authenticity, creativity, and your unique voice.We explore the deeper meaning of art, the role of self-expression in personal growth, and how embracing imperfection can unlock new levels of confidence and freedom. Whether you're a creative, entrepreneur, or someone navigating your own journey, this episode offers perspective that will shift how you see yourself and your work.Tune in to hear a refreshing take on creativity, mindset, and the courage it takes to express who you truly are.

On this session, Sbonelo Mkhize talks about his journey on how he reinvented himself to stay relevant in this fast-evolving economy. We also learned more about the relevant skills for tomorrow coming from a sales and retail background.Whether you’re curious about tech, considering a career shift, or just want to understand how digital products are built, this conversation will show you that programming is more accessible than you think — and that the journey starts with simply taking the first step.

Take some time to think about the beauty we would have missed out on if a caterpillar avoided metamorphosing into a butterfly. Change is inevitable. If you try too hard to evade it, you might hurt yourself. Embrace it. While you are on that, watch Tumelo Koko tell us how he became a published author at his age and a bank balance sitting at almost Zero-Rands. Of course, he wouldn’t have done it alone. He sticks his wins on Township Narratives, Faculty of Best Advisory, and Club Leadership amongst other organizations. Order the book here: Flutterwave.com/store/dibuka. (Metamorphosis) Leave a comment and alike for his hardworking black ass, we love him. Remember –The beauty is in the journey. Subscribe to our channel – it’s FREE

That's deep coming from a mother.Sinazo Nkgatu came, we chilled and got lit. We spoke about her passion, aspirations, and we laughed about how she got tricked into admitting that she is indeed pregnant. She is for #women_empowerment and moving places.Don't let your #pregnancy become a burden upon yourself | Palesa Nkgathu S1E4

Hey there, fam. We are back with another session with Ofentse Genes Mokgosi. Genes says that it breaks his heart to see a #Blackman in the same place for 10 years. If you think about it, this is deep. We are from the hood, but we should not let the societal struggles define our fate and destiny.

TMC Podcast is a South African career podcast exploring how people navigate diverse career paths in business, tech, and creativity. In this episode, we dive into the inspiring career story of Zaza, who expertly balances copywriting, fitness, and parenting. Discover how she manages career development amidst challenges and transitions, offering real-life insights into career navigation in today's dynamic professional landscape. Whether you're juggling multiple roles or seeking guidance on career growth, Zaza's journey provides valuable lessons for listeners across South Africa and beyond.

Wow, what an incredible season it’s been! As we wrap up Season 3 of the TMC Podcast, we’re filled with gratitude for the amazing guests who joined us. Each of you brought something special to the table—your stories, challenges, and accomplishments inspired us and sparked countless ideas in our community. This season wouldn’t have been the same without your insights and wisdom. Truly, you made it unforgettable! We’ve pulled together a compilation of the best career advice from Season 3. From overcoming challenges to celebrating wins, these gems of wisdom are pure gold!

Meet Chelsea Pitt, a talented Creative Director at RTC Studios with a remarkable gift for storytelling.With years of experience in the fashion and digital publication industries, Chelsea is highly skilled in design, user experience, creative writing, art direction, fashion styling, and fashion content production.A proud graduate of Umuzi Academy, she blends her strong foundation in arts and design with her creative vision to produce work that truly stands out.Chelsea’s passion extends beyond creativity—she is committed to helping small businesses grow by building strong networks and fostering opportunities for collaboration.Her career spans dynamic roles in public relations, marketing, and publishing, equipping her with a wealth of experience and a unique perspective. Whether she’s leading a project, mentoring young creatives, or helping brands discover their voice, Chelsea is driven to make every story meaningful and impactful.

In this episode, we sit down with Siyamthanda Yokwe to discuss careers in advertising and creativity, highlighting the challenges and growth opportunities in these fields. Join us as we dive into Siyamthanda’s journey growing up in Holland and building a dynamic career in South Africa’s advertising landscape. Whether you're exploring career development or seeking inspiration for navigating uncertainty, this episode offers valuable insights and honest conversations to help you rethink how careers really work in the real world.

Meet Amanda Hlatswayo, a talented product designer from Johannesburg with a passion for fast cars and home renovations. Born and raised in this vibrant city, Amanda attended Naturena Primary School and Holy Family College, graduating in 2009. Her eye for creativity led her to pursue graphic design at Boston Media House, where she quickly made waves, earning the title of top achiever in 2010. Her journey began humbly as a weekend relief librarian at Randburg Library, but it wasn’t long before she found her way into the world of design. In 2013, Amanda landed her first role as a graphic designer at a print company, and soon after, an agency in Bryanston welcomed her onboard, giving her the opportunity to work on dynamic accounts. Her career took an exciting turn in 2018 when she transitioned into UI design at Nedbank. There, she steadily climbed the ranks, ultimately becoming a product designer and crafting impactful digital experiences. Outside of her professional life, Amanda is all about spending quality time with family, which includes her three children: two humans and one fur baby. When she’s not designing, you’ll likely find her immersed in interior design projects, tackling home renovations, or enjoying a spin in a fast, modified car. I constantly had to fight for Design | Product Designer | Amanda Hlatswayo | TMC Podcast S3 E7Watch on YouTube

Meet Tam Maharaj, the founder and CEO of Mlk Communications 🏢, who is currently pursuing a PhD in Strategic Communication.With over 21 years of experience, she has built her career on one key principle: delivering the highest quality results.Tam’s journey began as a journalist at some of the largest publishing houses, where she worked for over 12 years on major titles. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into audience segmentation, effective writing and creative storytelling. She later transitioned into corporate communications, where she honed additional skills in strategy, customer experience, marketing, social media strategy, brand strategy, and public relations—winning two awards at each corporate role she undertook. In her current role as the head of Mlk Communications, Tam offers integrated marketing and communication services, focusing on generational and consumer research. Outside of her professional life, she is a dedicated wife, mother, and sports and fitness enthusiast.Watch on YouTube

Meet Katlego Thulare, an ordinary South African who loves to tell extraordinary stories. 🇿🇦 With 16 years of experience as a Senior Copywriter, Katlego has worked on some of the most exciting campaigns for brands like Valpre, Nedbank, Capitec, Shield, and even your faves Mrs. Balls and All Gold Tomato Sauce! 🍅🔥 But that’s not all! His greatest achievement? Overcoming the pandemic hurdles and self-publishing his first book: Welcome to South Africa - Jou Ma Se Boek! Launched in December 2022, Katlego sold out his entire first print run by the end of 2023! This coffee table book brings the extraordinary life of an everyday South African to the forefront in a fun and relatable way If you're looking for a unique gift, Jou Ma Se Boek comes in a beautiful A4 hardcover format, paired with an enamel cup, and packaged in a premium box—perfect for gifting yourself or a loved one! Order your copy here: https://lnkd.in/dTcu3BKK 🚚Watch on YouTube

Meet Thabo Tsolo, a game designer and the CEO of SpaceSalad Studios, a multi-award-winning indie game studio based in Johannesburg, South Africa. With a deep passion for storytelling, Thabo crafts immersive narratives inspired by his surroundings. He collaborates with a talented team to push the boundaries of game design, creating captivating and meaningful experiences that resonate deeply with players. 🎮✨ Notable games from SpaceSalad Studios: Hot Bunz: A 2D platformer where players control Buttopians, an alien race that twerks through obstacle courses in the Booty-Lympics to collect coins and compete in local PvP matches. 🍑🎮 Doba Dash: A 3D combat racing game that educates and entertains youth about recycling and climate change, inspiring them to become champions in the fight against global warming. 🌍 🏂 P.O.O Week (Point Of Order): A political satire game based on South African historical events, where players pick their favorite characters to create a coalition to fight the main boss. This game is a collaboration with the legendary Zapiro. 🗳️🕹️ There are many more games for you to explore here: www.spacesaladstudios.com 🌐Watch on YouTube

Meet Lwazi Basholo, the driving force behind Shyft Africa at Standard Bank South Africa and a leader in digital innovation.He’s dedicated to creating fintech solutions that empower financial inclusion throughout Africa. Balancing his career with an MBA and a love for 5-a-side soccer, Lwazi is a true example of leadership in action.Watch on YouTube

Meet Dzunani Mikhari, a self-taught SEO expert with over ten years of experience in the field. Throughout his career, he worked extensively in paid search, paid social, website development, content creation, and SEO, ultimately choosing to specialise in technical SEO. He has gained valuable insights from both agency and corporate environments, providing him with a well-rounded perspective. Recently, he launched an SEO YouTube channel, where he is currently the only person in South Africa discussing this subject. His goal is to dispel the misconception that SEO is difficult and confusing and is often treated as an afterthought. He aims to highlight its true value, establish himself as a thought leader and subject matter expert in the field, and build his name as a brand.

Meet Alroy Ndhovu, a true jack-of-all-trades in the world of digital media design, marketing, and UX/UI. With experience as a facilitator at Digify Africa, a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering youth with digital skills and job opportunities, Alroy is passionate about making a difference. Check out Digify Africa: https://digifyafrica.com/ But that's not all – he recently launched DejaMedia, a dynamic consultancy company that specialises in digital media, marketing, and design. DejaMedia is all about helping businesses stand out in the digital landscape through strategic branding and marketing solutions. In our discussion with Alroy, we explored several key points: Living Purposefully: Alroy shared insights into his journey of living with purpose. Demystifying UX: He addressed common misconceptions surrounding UX and its true essence. Creative Journey: Alroy recounted his background and evolution as a creative professional over the years. DejaMedia Launch: He touched on the recent launch of his company and its unique offerings. Digify Africa: Alroy shed light on Digify Africa's mission and its significance in empowering youth. Mental Health and Resilience: Alroy discussed the importance of mental health and overcoming challenges in his professional journey.What’s Next: Lastly, we explored Alroy's aspirations and plans for the future.Watch on YouTube

We had a young chat with Veli Phasha, a talented filmmaker/DOP originally from Johannesburg, Tembisa, now living in Cape Town. This episode marks Veli’s third time joining us on the TMC Podcast, with a previous episode remaining unreleased due to technical issues. Veli opens up about his current life, exploring his walk with God in the realm of Christianity, and his evolving career path. He delves into his transition from photographer to dynamic filmmaker/DOP, unpacking the intricacies of his role in the production process. Veli brings a wealth of experience, having contributed to notable projects such as the KFC "So Good" advert, the South African Netball team's World Cup campaign, and his involvement in the production team for the Maxhosa fashion show, among other personal endeavours. So, grab your favourite snacks and drinks, settle in, and allow Veli to unpack his story.

Another fun and insightful episode of the TMC Podcast with Paballo Mokwena? In this episode, we had a chat with Pblo as they unpacked their story and the distinctive perspective they bring to the realms of film and creativity. Paballo also shares the hurdles and triumphs encountered while transitioning from grand-scale productions to personal passion projects. Themes of courage, strength, and the artistic nuances behind the captivating short film, "Equilibrium," take center stage. Paballo also gives valuable insights into mental health and the significance of collaborative efforts in the creative process.Watch on YouTubeI had nothing left in me| Equilibrium short film | Mental health | Pabalo Mokoena | TMC Podcast S2E9

Meet Palesa Tshabalala, a South African teacher living in Taiwan. She's not just passionate about teaching; she's also an author, singer, dancer, and podcaster 🇿🇦 🌍🔥 We had a fascinating chat about culture shock, tackling challenges, food, loneliness, and mental health. Palesa even shared insights from her self-published book, "The Big Fat Man: Ndebele Book," and some unique stereotypes some people have about Africans, "In Africa, you eat rocks." 📚🌍 During her short visit home, Palesa shared a funny story about a taxi ride that took her to Alexandra Township on the way to the TMC studios. 🚕😂Watch on YouTube

Meet Masentle Siwela, an Agile Business Analyst at BDO, a digital marketing skills trainer with Meta Boost, and the founder of Consult the BA. 🔹 Agile Business Analyst at BDO 🔹 Digital Marketing Skills Trainer with Meta Boost 🔹 Founder of Consult the BA YouTube channelMasentle is no stranger to the world of digital marketing and business analysis. She's shared her expertise and insights with thousands of small business owners through engaging talks and workshops at Digify Africa. But that's not all! She's also been on a mission to empower the next generation of digital marketers. Masentle recently led an award-winning 10-week boot camp supported by Meta, where she trained and certified 60 Digify Pro graduates to become Digital Marketing Associates and Community Managers. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore the world of agile business analysis and digital marketing right here. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button and turn on the notification bell so you never miss an update!Watch on YouTube

This episode aims to educate our community about the realm of Social Media, Theatre and Performance, and Podcasting through Amo_helang’s experience.Amo also explores thought-provoking topics such as Art as Culture, Imposter syndrome, Empathy, Failure and the State of Creativity in South Africa, offering valuable insights and perspectives. We hope you’re just as inspired by her story as we are. If you found this episode helpful/valuable, don’t forget to subscribe and share it with your friends and family.Watch on YouTube Creatives are in their Capitalist Era | Art as Culture, Social Media | AmoHelang

Phathutshedzo Ramakhanya, born and raised in Soweto, Tshiawelo. Her early fascination with numbers set the foundation for her interest in mathematics and statistics. Having pursued a degree in maths and statistics, she is now on the journey to obtain an Honours degree in Statistics. Path believes in having a go-getter and a positive attitude towards life. An inspirational story of a passionate individual pursuing her interests in data science, mathematics, and statistics. A match made in heaven | Data Science, Maths, Stats | TMC Podcast S2E5 | PhathuWatch on YouTube

Picture yourself watching an advertisement that advocates for human-centric marketing. This is the focus of TMC Podcast Season 2 Episode 4, featuring the multi-talented Patamedi Lebea, who is known for his part-time superhero and full-time creative and no time to explain endeavors. With an impressive background as a radio presenter, award-winning copywriter, and now international business consultant, Patamedi delivers what could easily be a Masterclass in Advertising and Marketing in just a single podcast interview.Originally from Johannesburg, Patamedi now works as a visual consultant in Oxford. Pat believes that creating great content/products requires a clear intent and targeted messaging based on unique insights that resonate with a well-understood audience. Don't miss out on this valuable insight into effective marketing strategies.

In the third episode of the TMC podcast, we had the pleasure of interviewing the multi-talented, award-winning, musical genius and art director, Mr 'Okay GOD' himself, Kgodisho Zito Mowa. Zito takes us on an inspiring journey from getting lost in Jeppestown to finding his footing in the corporate world, offering inspiration and insights along the way.Watch on YouTube

Masai shares his incredible journey of discovering his love for software development after briefly exploring data science. He opens up about his views on the education system and how he dropped out of school before fully enrolling. He then shares how he developed an entrepreneurial spirit at a young age by organizing events, leading up to the birth of his idea for TravCar. Masai also provides insights into the exciting software projects he was a part of during his time at Telkom and his current work on the VodaPay service with Vodacom. Additionally, he recounts meeting his idol, Richard Branson, while in South Africa.Watch on YouTube

In this episode of the TMC Podcast, we catch up with Lems Makabanyane, a Product Lead, Strategist, and Umuzi alumni, as he shares his inspiring career journey in South Africa's digital space. Passionate about digital products and business strategy, Lems unpacks how he navigated his career development to become a versatile creative professional in the evolving tech landscape. Tune in to hear real career stories and valuable insights into building a successful career in digital product strategy within the South African context. This episode offers practical advice for anyone interested in career navigation, business, and creativity in the digital era.Watch on Youtube#digital #products #strategy

What does the future of work in Africa really look like, and how can young people prepare for it?🤔In this episode of Tech Meets Creativity, we had an insightful conversation with Andrew Levy, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer at Umuzi.The groundbreaking youth development hub that helps thousands of young people kickstart their tech careers. Andrew shares his journey from being a curious innovator to co-founding Umuzi, where they are helping bridge the gap between education, technology, and high-value career opportunities.Here’s what you’ll learn:1) How tech is transforming education and skills development across Africa2) What a Chief Innovation Officer really does (and why it matters)3) Why is social capital just as important as technical skills4) How AI in education can drive inclusion instead of inequality5) The industries of the future that young Africans should prepare for now6) Andrew’s biggest lessons — and what’s next for Umuzi in 2025If you’re passionate about education, innovation, youth empowerment, or the future of work in Africa, this conversation is packed with real insights, practical advice, and inspiration to help you turn potential into power.Listen, learn, and be inspired.Watch on YouTubeHow Umuzi is preparing Africa’s youth for the jobs of tomorrow | CIO Andrew Levy | TMC Podcast S4E7#economy #youthempowerment #digitalskills

Most people think managing money is about earning more. The truth? It’s about planning smarter. In this episode of TMC Podcast, Jason Mizen ( Certified Financial Planner) shares the habits, strategies, and mindset shifts that turn everyday income into long-term freedom.Here’s what you’ll learn:• What a financial planner actually does and why it matters• Practical steps to create a personal financial plan that fits your income and goals• How to prepare for life’s curveballs—illness, job changes, or unexpected expenses• Common myths about money management in South Africa• Practical habits young professionals can start today to build lasting securityWhether you’re fresh out of school, starting a career, or planning for retirement, these insights will help you take control of your financial story.watch on YouTubeMoney Talks with Financial Planner Jason Mizen | TMC Podcast S4E6 | Wealth and Mindset | Insurance#money #family #finance

As a Certified Usability Analyst and empathetic communicator, Sechaba Meloa excels at building strong connections with stakeholders and understanding their needs. With a solid foundation in UX design, he blends creativity, strategy, and human behavior insights to craft solutions that are both intuitive and impactful. His career spans finance, insurance, and mining — consistently delivering results that break the mold. Guided by the 7 Hermetic Principles, Sechaba takes a holistic, problem-solving approach and uses data, insights, and collaboration to drive meaningful outcomes. In this episode, we discuss: What a UX Designer/Usability Analyst really does (beyond making things “look nice”).Why soft skills are underrated — and essential for great UX.The unseen side of UX: business goals, technical constraints, and user psychology.Lessons learned working across finance, insurance, and mining industries.The hardest professional lesson he’s learned — and why it still echoes today.Advice for young people entering the UX field.Media How to become a UX Designer who truly solves problems | Careers | TMC Podcast S4E5 | Sechaba Melo

What happens when a full-time Advocate steps into the world of content creation?You get a compelling story of balance, purpose, and bold reinvention. In our latest episode of the TMC Podcast, we sit down with Thato Mahapa — an Advocate and Digital Content Creator — to unpack his journey navigating two seemingly opposite worlds: law and creativity.We covered:Life inside the South African legal professionWhat inspired his shift into content creationLessons on monetising creativity and building brand valueHow he maintains credibility in both spacesWhether you're in law, content, or balancing two careers yourself — this episode offers practical gems and real talk on growth, confidence, and career pivots.Watch the full videoBalancing courtrooms and digital content creation | TMC Podcast S4E4 | Thato Mahapa#law #contentcreator #podcast

What if we told you there’s an app that helps students save money on the stuff they actually care about?In this episode, we chat with Donna Leigh Mohamed, Marketing Manager at Varsity Vibe, about how the app is making student life a little more affordable — and a lot more fun!Donna shares her journey into marketing, what varsity life was like for her, and why she’s so passionate about connecting with youth.We touched on some of the challenges students face today, how brands can do better, and how you can get involved with Varsity Vibe — whether you're a student or a brand.If you’re a student trying to stretch your budget, or a brand looking to reach Gen Z in a meaningful way — this one’s for you. Making Varsity life a little more affordable | Marketing | TMC Podcast S4E3 | Donna Leigh Mohamed#students #university #digitalmarketing

Think you know digital marketing? Think again! In this episode of Tech Meets Creativity, we had a with Sudasha Vandiar, Managing Director and “Chief of Happy,” to uncover the real-world lessons of Digital Marketing that go beyond textbooks. What you'll learn:What Digital Marketing really is in 2025Career paths, daily life, and skills of a Marketing DirectorHow data and analytics drive powerful campaignsGame-changing tools Sudasha swears byPractical strategies and mental health tips for marketersSo whether you're a marketer, student, or content creator — this one’s for you.Digital Marketing - What They Don’t Teach You in School | Sudasha Vandiar | TMC PODCAST S4E2#digitalmarketing2025 #optimization #marketingtips

Is traditional marketing dead? Or is Gen Z just forcing brands to evolve? In this episode of the TMC Podcast, we sit down with Boitumelo Ramatlhape to unpack the transformative impact of social media in 2025 and why Gen Z is reshaping the way brands think about marketing. What you'll learn in this episode:Why old-school marketing tactics don’t work anymoreHow Gen Z is forcing brands to be more authenticThe biggest mistakes brands make when marketing to younger audiencesHow brands can adapt and thrive in 2025If you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or brand strategist, this conversation is essential for staying ahead of the game. 💬 Drop a comment: Is Gen Z changing marketing for the better?#socialmediatrends #contentcreator #marketing

TMC Podcast is a South African career podcast that helps you rethink how careers really work across business, tech, and creativity. TMC is where honest career conversations finally happen.Every second Wednesday, we sit down with people who look like you, sound like you, and come from similar backgrounds, sharing real stories about how they navigated uncertainty, decisions, and setbacks to get to where they are today.If you’re figuring things out, questioning your path, or trying to understand how people actually build careers in the real world, you’re in the right place.Sit back, listen, and learn.