THE INSIDE SHOW

Davin Phillips is a seasoned brand and new media specialist renowned for his innovative strategies and deep understanding of African markets. As a Director at CSA.global, an award-winning agency specializing in brands, technology, and experiences, Co-founded by his late mother in 2000—Davin has spearheaded campaigns across 87+ markets. Celebrated as a pioneer in the brand and talent space, Join us as we go INSIDE the dynamic world of bridging brands and culture.

Sibu Mabena founded Duma Collective, a leading creative communication agency specializing in traditional PR, social media, influencer campaigns, event management, and multimedia design. Known for her innovative approach and deep understanding of youth culture, Sibu has built one of the strongest teams in the industry, making Duma Collective a stepping stone for many young creatives. Her agency has worked with some of the biggest names and brands, establishing itself as a powerhouse in South Africa’s creative scene

JULLiAN GOMES, born and raised in South Africa, fell in love with House Music at the age of eight, amidst a background of Soul, Latin, and Kwaito. His career soared from his first performance in 2003, leading to collaborations with top labels worldwide. Notable achievements include performances at renowned festivals like Sonar Festival in Barcelona and releases with influential artists such as Atjazz. In 2012, he received his first MTN South African Music Award Nominee. Stepping into solo work in 2012, he continued to thrive, showcasing his remixing skills and releasing albums like "Late Dreamer" and "Slow Poison". In 2018, he launched his label "World Without End" and in 2020, surprised fans with the remix album "Poisoned". Performing all over the world, collaborating with some of the biggest artists and labels, and earning some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, he has undoubtedly carved his own lane. Constantly evolving his sound and breaking sonic and creative boundaries, Jullian’s journey stands as a testament to the power of passion and innovation in music

Ricardo da Costa is a true pioneer of South African entertainment, with a career spanning nearly three decades. Starting as a DJ, He’s performed alongside global icons such as Carl Cox, Deadmau5, and Swedish House Mafia. Ricardo transformed his passion into an empire across music, entertainment, and hospitality. As co-owner of the iconic Soul Candi Records, he has been instrumental in shaping South Africa’s music industry. His impressive events portfolio includes the legendary Spring Fiesta, H2O, Friends of Amstel, Electric Circus and Festival De Mexico, and an ever-growing list of top nightlife venues and restaurants, including Altitude, Artistry, The Ivy champaign Garden and The Ostrich, cementing his everlasting influence in South Africa's entertainment industry.

Mathew Kieser is the founder and creative director of SOL-SOL, a South African menswear label known for producing high-quality basics with a strong focus on fit, fabric, and design. The brand balances menswear and streetwear, offering clean silhouettes, muted tones, bold prints, and subtle details. Mathew is also the Director of MIA-Trading, an Apparel Buying Agency, and the owner of OSCS (Orphan Street Clothing Shop), a multi-brand streetwear and design store. - CTM mentioned in the video - www.yarnsworldwide.com

Siyabonga Ngwekazi, AKA Scoop Makhathini, is a pop culture icon. Known for his vibrant energy, deep knowledge of culture, basketball, music, and his ability to spot the next trend in fashion, Scoop has become the voice of the entertainment industry. He is celebrated for shaping thought-provoking conversations, leaving guests feeling like they’ve learned something new about themselves. Join us as we go INSIDE the world of the authentic cultural force

Dylan Bolus is the Co-owner and Creative Director of Next Generation, the holding company of Hydraulics and Antony Morato South Africa. He has shaped Hydraulics’ interior design language, launched its in-house collection, and collaborated with global brands like Moschino,  Giuseppe Zanotti, and BALR. Together with his brother Matthew BOLUS, they’ve redefined cutting-edge fashion. Discover how their dynamic brotherhood transformed Hydraulics into a powerhouse with 11 stores nationwide.

Thakzin is a trailblazing South African electronic music producer, who made a name for himself, co-producing with some of the country’s biggest names. In 2022, he released his groundbreaking single ‘The Magnificent Dance’ on Sondela and became one of the most viral tracks of the South African summer. It laid the foundation for 3 STEP, a disruptive hybrid of Amapiano, Afro, and Deep House, establishing him as the originator and uncontested leader of this new genre, now dominating dance floors worldwide.

Jo Farah transitioned from a corporate career to founding Sneaker LAB, a pioneering biotechnology-driven premium shoe care brand, renowned as the sustainable scientific authority in sneaker care. Sneaker LAB has collaborated with renowned brands like Christian Dior, Karl Lagerfeld, and Nike, and serves as the official global care partner for New Balance. With products available in over 64 countries across all major markets, join us as we go INSIDE the world of an innovator proudly taking South Africa to the world 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:42 - Growing Up in a Lebanese Family 03:00 - The Inspiration from Jo's Father 05:00 - Early Influences in Fashion and Sneaker Culture 08:03 - Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship 10:45 - Founding Sneaker LAB: The Spark of an Idea 14:00 - Finding the Gap in the Market 17:25 - Building the Brand and Logo for Sneaker LAB 20:15 - Sustainability and Biotechnology in Sneaker Care 24:00 - Launching Sneaker LAB: The First Big Break 28:05 - Rapid Growth and Expansion of the Brand 30:45 - Developing Products: The Cleaner and Protector 33:05 - The Science Behind Sneaker LAB's Probiotic Technology 37:00 - Partnering with Global Brands Like New Balance 41:00 - Taking Sneaker LAB International 44:05 - Milestones and Manufacturing in South Africa 48:00 - The Future of Sneaker LAB 52:00 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 57:00 - Reflections on the Journey and Challenges 1:02:27 - What is the Meaning of Life?

Lwazi Madonsela is a dynamic South African Gen Z creative with a rich background in music, fashion and broadcasting. Shaped by his education in art, fashion, and film schools, he has carved out a unique path through his podcast, offering ed-utainment while amplifying and archiving the stories of other creatives. Having partnered with global brands like Samsung and Nike, Lwazi has emerged as a voice for the youth, empowering creative entrepreneurs along the way and solidifying his role as a key figure in the creative landscape. 00:00 - Introduction 01:23 - First Guest with Whiskey on the Show 02:01 - How Do You Categorize What You Do? 05:00 - The Journey into Broadcasting 09:00 - Building a Network of Creatives 14:00 - The Impact of South African Roots on Creativity 19:00 - Early Inspiration from Magazines 24:00 - Growing up in the Hood and Discovering Creativity 29:00 - Love for Cars and Collecting 34:00 - Transition to Fashion and Logos Influence 39:00 - Sunday Best: Fashion Inspiration from the Early 2000s 44:00 - The Influence of Music on Lifestyle 49:00 - High School: Becoming a Tastemaker 54:00 - The Start of Editing and YouTube Journey 59:00 - Shooting at Clubs and Nightlife Photography 1:04:00 - Reflecting on the Creative Journey So Far 1:09:00 - Partnering with Global Brands Like Nike and Samsung 1:14:00 - Empowering Creative Entrepreneurs Through Storytelling 1:19:00 - The Role of Fashion and Music in Shaping Identity 1:24:00 - What’s Next for Lwazi Madonsela in the Creative Space 1:30:00 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Young Creatives 1:37:00 - What is the Meaning of Life?

Kid Fonque (aka Allan Nicoll) has played a vital role in South African electronic music and club culture for the last 20 years. With a career spanning production, DJing, presenting and heading up one of the genre’s most respected labels, Stay True Sounds, Allan’s most recent chapter sees him front and centre of legendary house music institution Defected Records as the newly appointed Head of A&R. From humble beginnings, DJing in the yard of Johannesburg hotspot 206 Live, Allan soon established himself as the go-to for South Africa’s deep house and electronic rhythms. Parallel to spinning alongside the likes of Gilles Peterson, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Tom Misch, Bonobo, Skepta, Henrik Schwarz, Âme and Rich Medina, Nicoll helped propel the Soul Candi imprint to seminal status on the African content. His first compilation CDs – the eclectic, Saladomundo Volumes 1 & 2 arrived on USM Records followed by ‘Kid Fonque And Friends’ featuring Theo Parrish, Cuebur, Charles Webster, DJ Whiskey and more on Soul Candi in 2013. ‘Be’ with Zaki Ibrahim and ‘All This Time’ with Clara Hill and D-Malice landed on UK- based imprint of esteemed producer Atjazz in 2015. Founded in 2015, Allan’s own imprint Stay True Sounds has been a jump-off point for some of the current leading lights in SA house music, including Bruce Loko, Fka Mash, Dwson, Zito Mowa, Jazzuelle, SculpturedMusic, BillowJazz, China Charmeleon, Sio and many more. Homing records from the scene’s much-loved pioneers, the label’s repertoire includes 2016’s ‘Bossa Over?’, ‘Life Is Real’ with collaborator D-Malice and Kid Fonque’s own acclaimed debut album ‘I Move To A Different Beat’. The 2019 feature-filled LP with Ty, former Liquideep vocalist Ziyon, Jonny Miller and Card On Spokes received five-star reviews from tastemakers Alex Barck (Jazzanova), Worldwide FM founder Gilles Peterson and Rainer Trüby. 2021’s collaborative album with Jonny Miller titled ‘Connected’ earned him Album Of The Month on Apple Music Africa and Album Of The Week on Traxsource. With an expert knowledge of the South African electronica scene, it came as no surprise when approached by national radio station 5FM to host for one of the biggest niche broadcasts in the country. Broadcast weekly for the last seven years, Kid Fonque’s show Selective Styles is a curation of the finest across the house spectrum featuring an array of local and international artists, including Felix Laband, Jazzuelle, Kuniyuki Takahashi, Till Von Sein and countless others. Its deserved win of Best Dance Radio Show at the 2019 Dance Music Awards South Africa cemented its reputation as the go-to for music discovery. The demand for Allan’s discerning ears didn’t stop there – in the same year he hosted Kid Fonque Presents True Music Sessions. Sponsored by Ballantine’s and broadcast on leading music platform Channel O, the series saw Kid Fonque interview some of the scene’s key players including Sio, Daev Martian, Lemon & Herb, Kususa, and Gina Jeanz. Free of boundaries – be they genres or borders – Kid Fonque’s latest move to the UK, heading up A&R for one of dance music’s leading outputs will see him play a pivotal role in bringing exceptional house music to a global audience. A pioneer for the scene, he will continue to present his award-winning Selective Styles exclusively for Defected’s 24/7 platform Defected Broadcasting House, bringing to the forefront the best of South Africa’s underground sounds.

Jonathan Bandli is the innovative co-founder and creative director of Bad Weather, a company that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the creative technology space. The vision for Bad Weather was born during Jonathan's time working in technical production houses, where he, alongside co-founder Andrew Bosman, recognized a significant gap in the market. They saw the need to bridge the creative and technical worlds to bring projects to life in an immersive, life-changing way for audiences. Under Jonathan's leadership, Bad Weather has become known for transforming ambitious ideas into unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impact. Jonathan is deeply committed to ensuring that South African talent is firmly cemented on the global entertainment map. His personal goal is to elevate the South African production industry to be recognized as global leaders by ensuring the foundations and behind-the-scenes work are executed at a world-class level. By sharing knowledge and fostering a culture of continuous learning, he aims to keep Bad Weather at the forefront of the industry, with fresh vision and innovation driving their global reputation. Young, ambitious, and a devoted family man, Jonathan is celebrated by friends, family, and peers as the life of the party—though he remains refreshingly down to earth. His unique blend of technical expertise, creative vision, and charismatic personality ensures that every project is not just an event but a magical experience. When he's not dreaming up new ways to wow audiences, Jonathan is likely plotting the next creative storm to shake up the industry with a good glass of wine in his hand. 00:00 - Introduction 01:24 - Starting the Conversation 02:07 - What Do You Do for a Living? 04:01 - Telling Stories Through Live Events 07:31 - Conceptualising and Executing Entertainment Spaces 10:24 - The Role of Technology in Live Shows 14:01 - Early Career in Music and Events 18:00 - First Big Projects in the Industry 22:00 - Building a Business in the Event Space 26:31 - The Founding of Bad Weather 30:00 - Expanding the Business Vision 34:12 - Working with Artists and Brands 38:05 - Challenges of Blending Creativity and Technology 42:01 - Major Milestones in Event Production 46:00 - Reflections on Creative Growth and Lessons Learned 50:12 - Balancing Artistic Vision with Technical Execution 54:10 - What’s Next for Bad Weather 1:01:52 - How to Do Auto-Tune Live 1:04:38 - Anything Else From Your Side? 1:05:00 - What is the Meaning of Life?

Daniel Clarke is a Cape Town-based artist working in animation, film, and illustration. He started his career in animation in 2008, serving as Production Designer and Art Director on projects such as the feature film Khumba, BBC’s Stick Man and Snail & the Whale. As an illustrator and designer, he has collaborated with clients such as Netflix, Animal Logic, DreamWorks, Sony, Nike, Adidas, and Penguin Random House. Daniel has also released a graphic novel titled Kariba, inspired by the mythology of the Zambezi River. Most recently, Daniel directed Aau’s Song, featured in Season 2 of Star Wars: Visions for Lucasfilm. Join us as we go INSIDE the world of an artist who conveys his art through deep emotion and feeling. 00:00 - Introduction 01:21 - Early Career Beginnings 04:01 - Influence of Family and Early Inspirations 07:31 - Transition to Concept Art 11:01 - Early Work and First Jobs 14:01 - Working with Triggerfish Animation Studios 18:01 - Designing for Animated Films 22:01 - Exploring Personal Artistic Growth 26:01 - Challenges and Inspirations in Large Projects 30:01 - Insights on Artistic and Technical Skills 34:01 - Pursuing Personal Projects 38:01 - Reflections on Industry Trends and Future Plans 42:01 - Exploring Creative Process 46:01 - Evolution of Digital Art Techniques 50:01 - The Impact of Cultural Influences on Work 54:01 - Balancing Client Work with Personal Art 58:01 - Future Goals and Upcoming Projects 1:02:01 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Artists 1:06:01 - Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Arie Fabian began his journey by transforming Fabiani from a multi-brand retailer into the luxury menswear brand anchored in Itallian satorialism, culture & passion The power of the brand lead to the iconic acquisition of Fabiani by TFG Limited in October 2011. Arie’s vision to spot a trend lead him to launching G- Star Raw in South Africa which was also acquired by TFG in December 2011. After completing Executive MBA through The Berlin School of Creative Leadership in 2019 , Arie’s relentless entrepreneurial spirit lead him to co-founding We Are EGG a beautifully curated platform of fashion, footwear, beauty, and jewelry all under one roof, in a pioneering partnership with Old Mutual Properties. In January 2020 Arie Fabian, Black Coffee and Themba launched YAWA- a luxury fashion and lifestyle retail platform that exclusively sells Amiri, Off-White, Palm Angels & Casablanca

Leslie Pulsifer has worked in the animation industry as a writer, animator, and designer, contributing to shows across major studios like Disney, Netflix, DreamWorks, Amazon, and NBC. She spent several years as the Director of Animation at a boutique studio in Toronto, and led an extensive slate of short films, educational content, and series development. She was the story lead on the award-winning show The Shaman’s Apprentice, which was shortlisted for the Oscars. Now in Cape Town, Leslie is setting social media ablaze with her new shortform series, “You can’t run forever, darling.” Join us as we go INSIDE this thrilling chapter of a multifaceted original, creator.

Refiloe Ramogase is a legendary figure in South African entertainment, with over 20 years of experience, managing iconic artists like TKZee and Khuli Chana, to leading urban divisions at both Sony Music and Universal Music Group, he co-founded Maftown Heights, one of Africa’s largest hip-hop festivals, and served as a Chairperson on the South African Music Awards, Join us as we go INSIDE the world of a multi-sectoral leader, that has made a pivotal impact on spotlighting South African talent and discover what comes next for this visionary.

Explore the multifaceted career of Nick Argyros, a visionary entrepreneur, drummer, and technologist. From humble beginnings in a small town near Johannesburg, South Africa, Nick has emerged as a leading figure in multiple creative and technological industries. Nick’s passion for the arts was nurtured from a young age, leading him to the National School of Arts, where he excelled and participated in various leadership programs. With a Bachelor of Technology diploma from WITS, he has garnered numerous accolades, including the Shining Light, De Beers, and Jewellex Awards for his innovative designs. Nick’s musical journey includes being a key member of notable bands like 16Stitch, Seether, and Newtown KNIFE Gang, performing on stages across Europe and the United States. His collaborations with international producers like Baumgardner and Ulrich Wild have further solidified his reputation as one of South Africa’s most skilled drummers. In the business world, Nick co-founded INJOZI Technology Studio, Audio Militia, and GotBot AI Solutions. Under his leadership, these companies have received numerous awards and recognitions, including Promax, Bookmark, Midas, Clio, FWA, and Loerie Awards. Notably, INJOZI was ranked as the #1 Digital Production Company in the EMEA region for 2024, and Audio Militia has been celebrated at international festivals and awards. Nick’s latest venture, GotBot, has been a standout in the AI sector, recognized as one of Africa’s Top 10 startups in 2017. His venture capital firm has made significant investments in innovative startups, showcasing his dedication to fostering new talent and ideas. Dive into Nick’s diverse career, from his artistic roots to his groundbreaking work in technology. This episode offers an intimate look at a man who continually pushes the boundaries of what’s possible, blending creativity with cutting-edge innovation. 00:00 - Introduction 01:30 - Explaining His Profession 04:42 - The Beginning of Everything 07:03 - Early Life and Family Background 10:10 - Discovering Music 14:00 - Drumming and Musical Influences 17:20 - Forming the Band 16 Stitch 21:30 - Transitioning to a Music Career 24:00 - Designing the First Album 28:00 - Journey to INJOZI 30:00 - Founding Audio Militia 35:00 - Launching GotBot.AI 39:00 - Innovating with GotBot 42:00 - Industry Challenges and Evolution 47:00 - Balancing Creativity and Business 51:00 - Entrepreneurship Insights 55:00 - Impact of Technology in Music 1:00:00 - Collaborations and Partnerships 1:05:00 - Future Projects and Vision 1:10:00 - Reflections on Career and Personal Growth 1:15:00 - Final Thoughts and Advice 1:25:00 - Closing Remarks

In 2008, Thatiso Dube went from making t-shirts for his peers in school to founding one of the biggest streetwear brands in South Africa. With 12 ever-expanding stores around the country, you can’t mention culture without mentioning Galxboy. In this conversation, we go INSIDE the 15-year-long journey of what it really takes to build with one of the most important creative directors, who is on a mission to encapsulate the modern aspirations of South African youth. 00:00 - Intro 01:57 - Netflix Documentary Discussion 02:46 - Falling in Love with Fashion 06:07 - Making T-Shirts for Peers 06:31 - Meeting Anatii 09:32 - Founding GALXBOY 15:44 - Moving from Mamelodi to Centurion 19:16 - Discovering the Real Internet 23:30 - Changing Course to Retail Management 27:02 - Designing for "I'm A Keep" 36:47 - First Trip to China 41:16 - Developing Brand Icon and Characters 43:30 - Launching GALXBOY 45:37 - Challenges and Lessons Learned 48:01 - Opening the First Store 53:30 - Store Closure and Restructuring the Brand 54:30 - The Meaning of Life

In 2013, Luigi Vigliotti and his family made a big shift and took a gamble to open a new coffee shop franchise in Cape Town. Thus, Shift Espresso Bar was born. The name ‘Shift’ symbolizes the profound changes in their lives, marking new beginnings. The family’s relentless motivation and drive turned Shift into a beloved brand known for its exceptional service, product quality, and dedication to crafting the perfect cup of coffee, spreading the franchise across the city like wildfire. 00:00:00 Introduction to Luigi Vigliotti 00:01:38 If We Were Watching Your Documentary, Where Would Your Story Start? 00:04:13 Transition from Dirty Dancing to a New Career 00:06:36 Discovering a Passion for Coffee While Traveling 00:08:05 Experiences in Coffee Shops Around the World 00:11:05 Decision to Leave the Performing Industry 00:14:24 Laying the Initial Foundations for a Coffee Shop 00:18:25 Opening Shift Espresso Bar in 2013 00:19:32 The Meaning Behind the Name 'Shift' 00:23:26 The Family's Move to Cape Town 00:26:15 Building a Family-Owned Business 00:28:44 The Motivation and Drive Behind Shift 00:32:24 Creating a Beloved Brand 00:34:05 Challenges Faced in the Coffee Industry 00:37:35 Dedication to Quality and Service 00:41:02 Expanding the Shift Franchise 00:42:46 Future Plans and Vision for Shift 00:45:16 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs 00:50:00 Overcoming Obstacles and Staying Motivated 00:55:00 Importance of Customer Feedback 01:00:00 Developing Unique Coffee Blends 01:05:00 Building a Strong Team 01:10:00 The Role of Innovation in the Coffee Industry 01:15:00 Closing Remarks and Inspirations

Known as one of the best minds in comedy, after a 5-year hiatus, Eugene Khoza is BACK! Join us as we go inside the world of a comedian who has recreated himself, exploring the journey of navigating his most difficult life chapters and renewing his love for his art form. With a career spanning almost 15 years, Eugene has captivated audiences with his multilingual talents and a string of television shows, as well as over eight one-man stand-up comedy specials. His career highlights include performing at prestigious venues like the Sydney Comedy Festival, the Laugh Factory in L.A., the Comedy Store in Australia, and the New York Comedy Club. Eugene also hosts the “Single Minded” podcast, which soared to the #1 spot in comedy podcasts in South Africa in 2023. Now, he’s back like he never left. Join us on us we delve INSIDE the remarkable journey of Eugene Khoza.