The Self Starters

I've had the opportunity to chat to some of South Africa's best Self Starters and in today's video I share some of my biggest learnings with you regarding mistakes people make when starting out. Surprisingly, the lessons learnt are truly common sense and don't require any background knowledge at all. It just goes to show that to turn your idea into a success you don't have to overthink it at all. #podcast #entertainment #entrepreneur #ventures #list #learning #startup

Dan Nicholl is a MC, Broadcaster and Writer and is in the enviable position of having the best jobs in the world. Yes, that's JOBS plural. Dan is the host of the Dan Nicholl show - a chat show that has seen Dan interview and share a laugh with some of the biggest sports stars and celebrities from South Africa and across the globe. Not only that, but Dan also hosts Dan Really Likes Wine an online show aiming to make Wine more accessible for viewers by sharing the stories behind the making of wines with Dan talking to prominent wine makers from SA and abroad. The obvious question I had for Dan was HOW has he managed to turn two passions he holds, sports and wine, into profitable businesses? Dan answers that and so much more, with his typical brand of good natured wit. It's an informative and entertaining episode that you won't want to miss! #podcast #entertainment #entrepreneur #sports #wine #southafrica #tv

Tasha's restaurants have become synonymous with quality food, lovely aesthetics and generous portion sizes. In fact, Tasha's is the benchmark we South African's have all used to compare other Brunch places “It's like Tasha's but not as vibey” (be honest, we've all said it!) Ever since starting the podcast I have wanted to speak to Tasha's founder, Natasha Sideris, and find out more about her journey - I was especially intrigued about the sale and repurchase of the majority stake in her business to Famous Brands, why she chose to relocate to Dubai, her new restaurant concepts and global expansion plans as well as any advice for Self Starters to get going on their own journey. What I got was so much more, Natasha is a down-to-earth, honest and hardworking business woman with a keen intuition for what will resonate with her customers and a strong human understanding of how to build a team that will not just move in the same direction but will quite literally follow her across the world. For many, it will come as a surprise to know just how well entrenched the Tasha's Group is in the Middle East already. However, this is just the start of the Group's global expansion plans with many new concept restaurants expected to roll out in the Middle East over the next few years with plans also underway for her signature, Tasha's cafe, to open up in the UK in the next few years. Her story feels relatable and accessible and I think that's down to her genuineness and unpretentious air - it was one of my favourite chats to date, I hope you enjoy! #podcast #entrepreneur #SelfStarter #food #business #foodie #Dubai #Brunch

Today I spoke to my good friend and fellow Survivor Cast Away, Dr Anesu Mbizvo. Anesu has a story that I've found truly intriguing since hearing it the first time. Anesu went the full distance to become a doctor, completing her SIX YEARS of study and doing her community service and internship time, just to leave it all behind because she knew deep down it did not fulfil her. What did she do next? Well, she focused on furthering her yoga skills, dabbled in corporate jobs and even tried her hand as the worlds most overqualified pre-primary school teaching assistant. Eventually her passion for yoga won out in 2018 and Anesu set off on a journey to teach yoga and curate a wellness centre, The Nest Space, that would make yogic practices more accessible for people of colour. Since then Anesu has gone from strength to strength alongside her business partner Banesa Tseki. Together, the dynamic duo have overseen The Nest Space's evolution with numerous additions to the wellness centre over the last 4 years. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: FBIWQJVJTDPK6EXT Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sensho/warm-blanket License code: GGLCWAWPB3T4182E #podcast #yoga #wellness #entrepreneur #survivorsa

Hallo Mense!!! Comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is a mainstay in the South African entertainment scene. Whether it is stand-up, mc-ing or acting, whatever Schalk touches turns to gold. It's hard to believe he has been performing for over a decade such is his demeanour and exuberance. It were these exact qualities that millions of South African's looked forward to during the covid-19 lockdown through Schalk's short videos that reminded us all to keep "feeling good, feeling positive". Having recently returned to South Africa after performing in the UK, Schalk shares his ambitions of enticing a broader global audience to his brand of humour and provides insight into his work ethic and ethos to keep delivering hilarious stories and zingers time and time again! #podcast #comedian #comedy #SouthAfrica #feelinggoodfeelingpositive #content #entrepreneur #SchalkBezuidenhout #trevornoah

Tasneem Karodia is the co-founder of Mzansi Meat Co, a biotechnology startup who recently created Africa's first ever lab-grown beef patty. The goal of the business is to shift our meat paradigm through the introduction of cultivated meat - a process which utilises cutting edge science to bring us meat so tasty you won't notice a difference. Tasneem's journey to co-founding Mzansi Meat Co is an interesting one, having studied accounting at university this former strategy consultant had no experience or expertise in sustainable food or biotechnology. Which begs the questions - how did she manage to co-found Mzansi Meat Co and develop Africa's first lab-grown beef patty within THREE years? As Tasneem recounts her story its clear to see the underlying passion and purpose that motivates her and drives her team, it also doesn't hurt that their is an unmistakable intelligence that has allowed her to methodically navigate an industry she has had to learn on the fly. As a Self Starter Tasneem's success highlights that not having an understanding of "how things work" is not an adequate excuse. Additionally, we learn why having a deep sense of purpose and ownership of your own venture can change the way one frames the stressors of working life, such that you have more time and energy than ever before. #podcast #food #startup #biotechnology #africa #foodie #entrepreneur Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hopLicense code: UE1BSGH1UKFVV8LI

Shannon Guss is a Survivor Podcaster with the RHAP (Rob has a Podcast) Podcast Network who is living her dream of being intrinsically linked with the franchise she loves. She has transcended beyond being an independent Survivor podcaster having become a TV panelist on 'Talking Tribal', Survivor Australia's weekly chat show and a production consultant for Survivor South Africa. As Shannon recounts her story it is clear to see she still finds it surreal to be in her position as a preeminent Survivor analyst. Her journey from fan to favourite is filled with fun anecdotes and screams of a fan living her fan dream. As a Self Starter Shannon's success reiterates the importance of always "shooting your shot", why we should always apply ourselves 110% to things we are passionate about and how if you are consistent, persistent and good at what you do success will inevitably arrive by the bucketloads. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: 1HAZVJ7NIF5WUFUO #podcast #survivor #survivorSA #SurvivorAU #Hamilton #content #entrepreneur

Carla Gubb is the owner of Soul Skin, a clothing brand focused on yoga apparel that appeals to the angel and devil inside us all. In a nutshell, Carla's clothing is all about providing balance to match all sides of any wearers personality. In our chat Carla spoke open and honestly about the difficulties in creating and scaling a side hustle whilst also being a full time working professional. From suffering burn-out to the stresses of handing over the reigns, Carla is as candid as it gets and at times we muse on the best way forward together. As a Self Starter Carla speaks reiterates an important point often forgotten - an idea is worthless without execution. More so, Carla's viewpoint is so valuable in a world that is increasingly an echo chamber for successful stories (and reflect back on difficulties with rose tinted glasses). She is someone in the middle of her journey, succeeding often, struggling sometimes and still figuring it all out. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: JQMOKVTYGG1KRLZT #podcast #survivor #survivorsa #yoga #fashion #content #entrepreneur

Could you imagine having a normal childhood and teenage experience and then unexplainably losing your eyesight in your 20s? Even worse, going for years without understanding why exactly this was happening? I imagine you, like me, cant... ... In this episode I speak to a South African Sports Award winner, Ndumiso Nyawose about losing parts of his eyesight at 20, the 3-4 years of uncertainty whilst he awaited a diagnosis, how he came to terms with his life changing circumstances and fighting internal and external stigmas as a partially sighted person. The Self Starters podcast episode 8 is out now! Available on Youtube, Spotify, Google and Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eZHexwEv Given the degradation of his sight Ndumiso was forced to leave university early and spent a number of years at home awaiting for any answer as to what was happening to him. Yet despite the long wait he subsequently attained his Bcom degree and has gone on to be a preeminent figure in South African cricket ranks. His story is a truly inspirational one and you cannot help but be impressed by his sunny disposition and charm. Part 1 of this podcast is related to Ndumiso's story about losing his eyesight and Part 2 is about his journey with Blind Cricket South Africa culminating in him being recognised at the highest level nationally for his efforts. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hopLicense code: FFW97UBCDMJWYTVA Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/danijel-zambo/dreaminLicense code: FTACEDUMYOJBRVUQ #podcast #cricket #blindcricket #disability #inspiring

I spoke to Comedian Simmi Areff, host of Africa's 3rd largest podcast - Lesser known somebodies Simmi is a founding father of South African podcasting having moved into the space in the early 10's at a time when no one other than Gareth Cliff took the format seriously. Since then, Simmi has built a podcast that has interviewed some of the most preeminent entertainers and public figures locally and abroad. In addition, he has started POC Podcasts a production house that is cultivating South Africa podcasting talent and providing listeners with a world class audio experience. As a Self Starter, Simmi has had to break down barriers in African podcasting given that the continents top podcasts remain undervalued by platforms and sponsors. In the chat we delve deeper into these difficulties but also the joys of being a creator and being proud of your work. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: 5MG0HYYWTIHQ5TQM #podcast #comedy #creator #lesserknownsomebodies #entrepreneur #comedian

I spoke to co-founders of the Marble Group celebrity chef David Higgs and serial businessman Gary Kyriacou about their latest venture Pantry. The Self Starters podcast episode 6 is out now! Available on Youtube, Spotify, Google and Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eZHexwEv Pantry is a revolutionary take on the garage forecourt convenience store with a hybrid model of supermarket, deli, take-away and retail store. What makes Pantry special is that David and Gary are not satisfied with convenience at the expense of experience meaning customers can expect a differentiated experience in the same vein as the Marble Group's high-end restaurants Marble and Saint. From artisanal soft serve, to curated cold cuts and the most delicious ready to go meals - Pantry lives up to its tagline fancy but easy. As Self Starters, Gary and David are on top of their game and titans of industry. We delve deeper into the formation of their business partnership, what it takes to be successful and how and why they made the transition from high-end restaurants into the convenience store format. #podcast #luxury #marble #convenience #food

Sanda Shandu is an award winning South African actor, singer and song writer who has acted in acclaimed shows such as King Kong and Orpheus in Africa and even dabbled in Hollywood through his roles in Netfix's The Kissing Booth. In our chat Sanda spoke about his journey to date; about being bit by the acting at an early age thanks to Justin Timberlake, the disconnect of going to university as a safety net studying and eventually getting his break and becoming a mainstay in the South Africa entertainment industry. As a Self Starter, Sanda's story is one of perseverance and patience and teaches us that if you have talent and want it bad enough, you will find a way to make it work. Throughout our chat Sanda is his bubbly, entertaining self making it so clear to see why and how he has done so well so quickly. The hardest thing to believe in Sanda's journey is that he plays a villain so well! Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: AJJGDUDGEU53NWRQ #podcast #actor #singer #entertainer #hollywood #KingKong #Netflix #Kissingbooth #SelfStarter

Lynton Naicker is the co-founder of Dops Rewards a customer analytics and rewards platform that is making waves in the alcohol industry. In our chat Lynton spoke about his journey to date and shares some of the highs of being a serial entrepreneur. For Lynton the highs have been numerous from creating the first interactive tv campaign in South Africa to meeting the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. As a Self Starter Lynton tries to start fast, start small and if possible, start yesterday with his ideas. Throughout our chat Lynton shares his insight on why it's so important to focus on testing concepts rigorously with customers in a live environment as opposed to "perfecting" a concept before taking it to market. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: 6RBVZTKKHH5R1S48 #podcast #entrepreneur #rewards #startup #gettingthingsdone

Dino Paulo is the owner of HintHunt, an escape games business that has delighted tens of thousands of South African's through their ingenious puzzles and riddles. In our chat Dino spoke openly and honestly about his trials and tribulations of running a business: from feeling like an imposter, to fund misappropriation and covid - the ever introspective Dino is someone who's story is full of insight and courage. As a Self Starter Dino exemplifies why we should never be afraid to use our own voice and how being able to find the positives in the worst scenarios can make you a better and more empathetic leader. For those starting ventures with a partner, the ever candid Dino provides insights into the highs and lows of a partnership from mentorship to betrayals and everything in between. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: 2X9W4D7BH9TKAHFG #podcast #entrepreneur #endurance #gettingthingsdone

Renier Louwrens is the founder of the NPO Beyond39, a charitable foundation focused on creating sustainable impact across communities in South Africa. In our chat Renier spoke at length about his foundations first fundraising event, his attempt at breaking the world record for running the Drakensberg Grand Traverse, a daunting 250km run in which he targeted a completion time of 61 hours across 2.5 days of running. Renier's attempt ultimately proved unsuccessful given adverse weather conditions with potentially life threatening consequences. As a Self Starter Renier provides us with insight into how having a clearly defined purpose can provide the strength and clarity to push your venture forward with conviction and energy that is hard to beat. Renier defines failing forward given his level of introspection and ability to extract key learnings from his experiences, ultimately showing us that trying and failing is better than not trying at all. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): http://uppbeat.io/t/danijel-zambo/dreamin License code: Q2NDF6EH6USLVMGV Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): http://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: NWZO7B4ROQUX6VEV

Former eNCA Creative Director Santoni Engelbrecht took being retrenched in her stride starting her online fashion store Kwaito Koeksister soon after. In our chat Santoni demonstrated her business savviness, particular her ability to understand and predict her customers needs. Since starting Kwaito Koeksister Santoni has shifted from just a business owner to being content creator as well, through her ability to successfully self promote and build a sense of community around her. As a self starter she embodies the “Act first, think later” mentality, clearly demonstrated in her fearlessness at starting a business in an industry she knew very little about. Through her pragmatism and focus on customers she has turned Kwaito Koeksister into a professional outfit that punches well above its weight! Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): http://uppbeat.io/t/danijel-zambo/dreamin License code: ZCCMJZYIMXLKAUPR Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): http://uppbeat.io/t/kidcut/jazz-and-hop License code: MTVEJI6KUBL9GDET

Who is the podcast for? Do you have amazing ideas but no will to action them? Are you too risk averse, feel like an imposter or just lazy? Conversely, are you someone who can turn ideas into action instantaneously and are looking for a sense of community? Either way the Self Starters is the podcast for you! Who is the host? My name is Kiran Naidoo, I'm a Strategy Consultant best known for my time on hit reality tv show Survivor South Africa. I am a serial "idea guy" who struggles to kickstart an idea and turn it into something profound. Through this podcast I want to evolve into a man of action by learning from the Self Starters among us.