Risky Business with Bryan Hattingh

In Episode 24 of the Risky Business podcast, host Bryan Hattingh and co-host/sound engineer Jonathan Shaw sit down with business leader Louis Castens to explore what it takes to navigate high-stakes corporate environments. The discussion centres around the evolution of modern leadership, focusing on how executives can maintain agility and cultivate a "thrival" mindset when facing industry challenges. Castens shares personal insights into balancing organisational growth with the cultural health of a team, emphasising that a business's true resilience lies in its human connections and authentic communication. By looking closely at how leaders manage risk, humility, and strategic pivots, the trio provides an actionable roadmap for staying grounded while steering enterprises through economic uncertainty.

Recommended music listening with this podcast:

• Joe Bonamassa "Mountain Climbing"
• Travis "Why Does It Always Rain On Me"
• Puddle Of Mudd  "Blurry"
• Randy Pie "Highway Driver"
• Memory Lain, Hugh "Headloss"
• Collective Soul "Run"
• Snow Patrol "Run"

Find more at https://riskybusiness6.wordpress.com/ or https://www.cycan.co.za/

In this heartfelt episode of Risky Business, regular host Bryan Hattingh steps into the guest seat alongside his wife and business partner, Zee Hattingh, and their head of customer experience, Nuru Adams. With sound engineer Jonathan Shaw taking the lead as guest host, the conversation moves from the technical world of business leadership into the personal realm of "couples in business". The trio explores the 44-year journey of the Hattinghs, revealing how their shared values specifically the mission to "sustainably enrich" the lives of everyone they meet have transformed Cycan from a specialised recruitment firm into a global leadership and coaching powerhouse. 

Find more at https://riskybusiness6.wordpress.com/ or https://www.cycan.co.za/

In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh sits down with international business leader Michael Franklin to trace his expansive career across multiple continents and industries. From his early days leaving South Africa in the 1980s to leading major acquisitions and diverse business units globally, Franklin shares a wealth of knowledge on the evolution of leadership. The discussion centers on the importance of agility, the "entrepreneurial" mindset within large corporate structures, and the unique opportunities found in the wake of corporate mergers. By examining both successes and the necessity of "failing forward," Hattingh and Franklin provide a masterclass in staying resilient and keeping one’s "head out of the shell" to spot the next big break.

Find more at https://riskybusiness6.wordpress.com/ or https://www.cycan.co.za/

In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh is joined by Steve Mallaby, the Chief Commercial Officer of the international fintech organization MyFanPark. The conversation explores the complexities of leading global teams across diverse cultures, from the fast-paced markets of the UK and US to the emerging landscapes of Africa. Mallaby shares insights on the necessity of "confident humility"—the ability for leaders to surround themselves with people smarter than themselves and admit when they don't have all the answers. They delve into the shifting nature of work, the importance of purpose over profit, and the technical and cultural agility required to succeed in the modern fintech industry.

Find more at https://riskybusiness6.wordpress.com/ or https://www.cycan.co.za/

In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh and co-host Jonathan Shaw address the daunting economic realities of 2026, from skyrocketing fuel prices and "scam" inflation to the pervasive anxiety of a world seemingly on the brink of conflict. Rather than focusing solely on the "yucky" circumstances, Hattingh advocates for a "thrival" mindset, encouraging listeners to trade superficial entertainment for deep human connection and communal generosity. The duo explores practical ways to navigate stress, such as returning to shared board games, working from home to offset costs, and utilizing lifelong learning as a therapeutic focus. Ultimately, the episode serves as a call to look beyond the "clouds" of the current moment and choose authentic joy through servitude and right thinking.

Find more at https://riskybusiness6.wordpress.com/ or https://www.cycan.co.za/

In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh and co-host Jonathan Shaw examine the overwhelming "storms" of the modern era, ranging from global geopolitical conflicts and economic instability to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. They explore how these external pressures create internal stress and "headwinds" that can paralyze individuals and organizations alike. Rather than succumbing to fear, the hosts advocate for a shift in perspective, moving from a mindset of worry to one of "positive expectancy". By emphasising personal agency and the importance of taking stock during crises, the episode provides a framework for navigating life's unpredictable floods with resilience and intentionality.

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In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh and co-host Jonathan Shaw explore the vital role of authentic friendship as a stabilizing force in an increasingly turbulent world. Moving beyond casual social interactions, the discussion delves into the "imperative" of having deep-rooted connections that provide support during both professional challenges and personal crises. Hattingh shares personal reflections on his long-standing friendships, while the duo examines the unique barriers to vulnerability within the corporate C-suite. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that the quality of one's relationships is a primary determinant of resilience and long-term well-being.

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In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh and co-host Jonathan Shaw explore the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its potential to either alienate or enrich the human experience. Drawing from high-level conversations with global tech leaders, Hattingh discusses "responsible AI" and the surprising trend of users leveraging AI-saved time to deepen personal and professional relationships. The hosts deliberate on the balance between using AI for "heavy lifting" research and maintaining an authentic individual voice, ultimately arguing that technology should serve as a catalyst for a modern renaissance of creativity. The episode concludes with a heartfelt plea to prioritise empathy, active listening, and love in an increasingly automated world.

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In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh and co-host Jonathan Shaw discuss the critical importance of the first 90 days of the year in determining one's long-term success and fulfilment. Hattingh introduces the philosophical concept that "we live twice," with the second life beginning the moment we realize we only have one, prompting a deeper look into personal agency and time management. The conversation traverses the dangers of over-identifying with corporate structures, the mechanics of effective goal setting, and the necessity of heartfelt passion when transitioning into entrepreneurship. Ultimately, the episode serves as a guide for listeners to move away from "automated" living and toward a life defined by clear priorities, focused intentionality, and a redefined relationship with time.

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In this episode of Risky Business, host Bryan Hattingh interviews Patrick Kayton, CEO and co-founder of Cognition, to discuss the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the modern workplace. Moving away from the "bloody" connotations of a tech revolution, Caton frames the current AI era as a metamorphosis that prioritizes human connection and behavioural change over mere software adoption. The discussion covers the journey of Cognition from its entrepreneurial roots in South Africa to its global partnership with Accenture and highlights how AI tools like Microsoft Copilot are being used to eliminate workplace drudgery. By shifting focus from fear-based adoption to intentional use, Hattingh and Caton illustrate how technology can ultimately empower individuals to reclaim their time and achieve a more meaningful work-life balance.

Find more at https://riskybusiness6.wordpress.com/ or https://www.cycan.co.za/