The African CEO

The Truth About Alcohol | Sarah Kennan: Leonista Founder

#podcast #alcohol #africa #tequila #product #business
 
I sat down with the founder of Leonista - Sarah Kennan.
 
Leonista is South Africa's first 100% Karoo agave spirit crafted in the traditional Mexican way.
 
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Timestamps:
 
00:00-04:25: Sarah’s background
04:26-06:38: Why Sarah started her Tequila business
06:39-07:48: Mexican Tequila vs other Tequila
07:49-10:21: Agave plant
10:22-13:52: How Sarah leads her company
13:53-14:49: The story of Leonista’s name
14:50-17:42: The 1% Club
17:43-22:50: What Sarah wished she knew when she started Leonista
22:51-25:34: Production side of the business
25:35-28:21: Branding Leonista
28:22-32:14: Leonista’s customers and distribution
32:15-41:22: Pros and cons of alcohol
41:23-46:47: Fast Fire
 
Link to The African CEO Website - https://theafricanceo.co.za/ Link to The African CEO LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/theafricanceo/
 
Link to The African CEO Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/theafrican_ceo/
 
Link to Naison’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/naisonpillay/
 
Link to Naison’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/naisonpillay/
 
Link to Sarah’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/barbarella_twinkletoes/
 
Link to Leonista’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leonistaspirit/
 
Link to Leonista’s Website - https://leonista.co.za/

Authenticity Comes From Honesty | Schalk Bezuidenhout: Comedian & Actor

What does it take to turn life’s challenges into laughter?
 
In this week’s podcast episode, “Authenticity Comes From Honesty,” Naison had the privilege of sitting down with comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout to unpack his journey.
 
From his early childhood and humble beginnings in stand-up (like opening for Barry Hilton without pay) to building an authentic brand, Schalk’s story is as inspiring as it is hilarious.
 
He shared insights on channeling pain into humour, the creative process behind his material and the resilience it takes to become a successful comedian.
 
Schalk also spoke vulnerably about navigating personal challenges, including his recent separation, and the lessons he’s learned about himself along the way.

How To Grow A Newsletter | Renier Kriel: The Open Letter Founder

#businesspodcast #africa #entrepreneurship #techstartup #newsletterbusiness
 
“It’s my mission to help as many founders as I can - if they win, we all win.”
 
I sat down with the founder of The Open Letter - Renier Kriel.
 
In his 20s, he founded a software agency that played a pioneering role in Africa's tech landscape. They developed some of the continent's first smartphone apps for leading companies such as Takealot, Checkers and MTN.
 
After 12 years, Renier successfully exited the business, transitioning into a new chapter where he now focuses on empowering the South African tech ecosystem.
 
In this episode, he shares the vision behind The Open Letter and discusses how the team successfully grew its subscriber base
 
Renier also shared the secrets on how they were able to monetise The Open Letter.

The Key To My Comedy Success | Marc Lottering: Global Comedian

The one and only Marc Lottering… 
 
Naison sat down with the South African comedy legend, and thoroughly enjoyed our conversation.
 
Marc took us on a journey through his childhood, sharing what it was like growing up in the Cape Flats.
 
He opened up about how he discovered his passion for comedy and the hurdles he overcame to pursue his dreams.
 
He also revealed his secret to staying relevant in the ever-evolving entertainment industry and offered valuable insights on building a career that resonates not just locally, but on a global stage.
 
#podcast #comedian #standupcomedy #entertainment #africanstories

Tools To Cure Depression | Dr Angelic Nespola: Counselling Psychologist

#mentalhealth #depression #anxiety #stress #podcast
 
“These are tools to cure depression…”
 
🎙️ On the latest podcast episode, I had the privilege of interviewing Dr Angelic Nespola, a counselling pychologist.
 
🌍 Dr. Ange is a specialist in helping her clients navigate stress, anxiety and overcome depression.
 
✨ In this episode, we dive deep into these critical topics, sharing valuable insights and practical strategies to help you manage life’s toughest challenges.

The Truth About LOADSHEDDING In South Africa | Mteto Nyati: Eskom Chairperson of the Board

#southafrica #africa #businesspodcast #entrepreneur
 
🎙️ On the latest podcast episode, Naison had the privilege of interviewing Mteto Nyati, the chairperson of the board at Eskom.
 
🌍 In this episode, Mteto candidly addresses the deep-rooted challenges at Eskom, including ineffective leadership, financial mismanagement and frequent budget overruns on key projects.
 
✨ Mteto also shares actionable strategies to prevent corruption and emphasises the importance of accountability in steering Eskom toward a sustainable future.

The Jimmy Nevis Story

“Music heals me…”
 
🎙️ On the latest podcast episode, Naison had the privilege of interviewing Jimmy Nevis.
 
✨ Jimmy is an award-winning singer, songwriter and producer born and bred Cape Town, South Africa.
 
🌍 In this episode, Jimmy takes us on a journey through his incredible story - from singing in front of his entire school to landing spots on radio stations nationwide. His story is truly inspiring!

"Make Sacrifices for your Dreams" | Tonderai Chavhange: Former Springbok

“If you’re not willing to sacrifice for your dreams, your dreams will be sacrificed…”
 
🎙️ On the latest podcast episode, Naison had the privilege of interviewing Tonderai Chavhanga.
 
✨ Tonderai is a former Springbok rugby player and the current CEO of the S-Group.
 
🌍 In this episode, Tonderai opens up about the challenges he faced throughout his career and shares invaluable advice for professional athletes looking to successfully transition into the business world.

From Selling On The Street To Speaking on Tedx | Nicky Verd

🎙️ On the latest podcast episode, Naison had the privilege of interviewing Nicky Verd, a global speaker and the author of Disrupt Yourself or Be Disrupted.
 
✨ In this episode, Nicky shares her incredible journey, from selling products on the streets of Johannesburg to becoming a global thought leader and TEDx speaker.
 
🌍 She candidly shares the challenges she faced as a single mother, navigating life in a foreign country and reveals how she triumphed over these obstacles.

How To Master Yourself | Buntu Majaja: SA Innovation CEO

“What’s something you had to recently forgive yourself for?”
 
🎙️ On the latest podcast episode, Naison had to privilege of interviewing Buntu Majaja, the CEO of SA Innovation Summit.
 
🌍 SA Innovation Summit catalyses economic growth on the African continent by connecting tech entrepreneurs to capital, skills and markets.
 
✨ In this episode, Buntu shares his inspiring journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a powerful force for innovation in South Africa.