Every learner deserves a future, not just a classroom. Fuel South Africa’s future innovators and support Siyafunda today: https://www.siyafundaef.org.za/

Felix Spies, founder of Siyafunda Education Foundation, joins John Watson to unpack how philanthropy in South Africa can evolve from charity handouts to sustainable wealth creation.

Felix shares how he’s bridging the gap between corporate boardrooms and rural classrooms - from building trust-based partnerships to transforming education in the Northern Cape.

Together, they explore what real impact looks like, why short-term “show and go” projects fail, and how the five T’s - Time, Talent, Treasure, Testimony, and Ties - can change how companies and individuals serve communities.

If you’ve ever wondered how to connect purpose, profit, and people - this conversation will challenge how you think about giving, leadership, and being in your right place.

Connect with Felix Spies here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/felixspies/ Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

The Lekker Network is built to connect South African business owners around the world. Learn more here: https://thelekkernetwork.com/

Guy Ellis, chairman, founder and author of the brand new book "The Negotiation Code", talks to John Watson about how AI can be used as a training tool for negotiation skills.

They explore the intricacies of negotiation, emphasizing the importance of preparation, adaptability, and the power of silence. Guy also shares insights from his personal experiences and discusses how using AI can sharpen your negotiation preparation.

The conversation also touches on the significance of building a network and the value of relationships in business. Guy reflects on his recent experiences lecturing at Harvard and the lessons learned from students. The episode concludes with a discussion on how the The Lekker Network came to be and it's mission to connect South Africans globally.

Grab your own copy of The Negotiation Code:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1647049636

Connect with Guy Ellis here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-ellis/

https://www.thenegotiationcode.com/

Connect with John and Rudolf here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-connects/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

#therightplacepodcast #thelekkernetwork Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

I Coach Frustrated Business Owners and Introverts to Connect with Confidence and Grow Their Network: https://forms.gle/hjes2RmV5Jw9TWsf7

Stephan Weyers, Co-Founder of Wingman, talks to John Watson about his role as an endurance coach who helps busy executives transform their fitness and lives.

They discuss Stephan's journey from being an unfit lawyer to a successful Ironman coach, the common challenges faced by athletes, the importance of lifestyle choices over genetics, and how to design realistic training programs for busy people.

Stephan shares insights on building trust with clients, the role of technology in coaching, and the significance of consistency in endurance sports. He also highlights a success story of former Springbok and Blue Bulls rugby player, Flip van der Merwe, who transformed his life through endurance training and just completed his first Half-Ironman at Vichy, France.

Connect with Stephan Weyers here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephan-weyers/

https://wingmansport.com/ Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

Are You A Frustrated Business Owner or Introvert? If You Want To Connect with Confidence, Start Here: https://forms.gle/hjes2RmV5Jw9TWsf7

Andrew Fick, Founder of Finance Fusion, talks to John Watson about the importance of financial literacy for non-finance teams and how understanding finance can empower employees to make informed decisions that positively impact the bottom line.

He emphasizes the need for intentional decision-making, the significance of cash flow, and the value of training non-finance professionals in financial concepts.

The discussion also touches on the role of networking, collaboration, and the lessons learned from both public and private sectors, highlighting the importance of asking for help and the power of community in business success.

Connect with Andrew Fick here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-fick-ca-sa-financefusion-finance-training/

https://financefusion.com/

#therightplacepodcast #financefusion Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

Make good ethics part of your business' foundation with Ethics In Action: https://ethicsinaction.co.za/

Ilene Power, the head of Ethics in Action under the Unashamedly Ethical banner, talks to John Watson about working with courageous leaders to align values with behaviour, and turning ethics into a strategic advantage that builds trust, reduces risk, and drives purpose-aligned performance.

They discuss the importance of ethics in leadership and organizational culture where Ilene emphasizes that ethics should not be viewed merely as compliance but as a strategic advantage that fosters trust and accountability.

Ilene outlines how organizations can proactively manage ethics, create a culture of integrity, and navigate the evolving landscape of ethics education. She also addresses the challenges posed by AI in business ethics and the necessity for clear policies. The discussion then highlights the personal commitment required from leaders to instill ethical practices within their organizations.

Connect with Ilene Power here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilene-power/ Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

Are you ready to reach your business dreams? Talk to Scale Up Partners today: https://scaleup.partners/

John Watson and Jordaan Jacobs unpack 6 key actions from Daniel Priestley's recent appearance at The Suits and Sneakers⁩ Main Event in South Africa, focusing on his business growth and networking strategies.

They explore the importance of leveraging technology, building confidence through networking, the necessity of self-disruption, and the value of personal stories in business.

The conversation emphasizes actionable steps for entrepreneurs to scale their businesses effectively while embracing progress over perfection.

#therightplacepodcast #scaleuppartners #suitsandsneakers Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

Michele de Kreek, Director at Up Time and strategic advisor and change management coach, talks to John Watson about navigating high-stakes transformations.

They discuss the importance of understanding resistance as valuable data, the role of leadership in fostering change, and the necessity of creating safe spaces for vulnerability. Michele emphasizes the need for leaders to listen actively and engage all employees, including introverts, in conversations.

The discussion also covers the impact of AI on change management, the importance of alignment in organizations, and the value of community in supporting business owners through challenges.

Connect with Michele de Kreek here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-de-kreek-40711625/ Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

Connect with extraordinary South Africans around the world by joining The Lekker Network: https://thelekkernetwork.com/

Leigh Stefanski, MD at Now Boarding Digital, talks to John Watson about current UX design trends and the evolving landscape of user experience and product design when it comes to apps and websites.

They discuss the importance of understanding user needs, the role of product management, and the significance of design systems. Leigh shares insights from her experience in improving user onboarding processes and the critical nature of design in the MedTech space.

The conversation also touches on the benefits of outsourcing design work and the ongoing nature of product development, emphasizing the human role in navigating these challenges.

Finally, they explore the value of The Lekker Network in fostering connections among South African professionals.

Connect with Leigh Stefanski here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighstefanski/ Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

The Lekker Network was built around LinkedIn and connecting South African business owners around the world. Learn more here: https://thelekkernetwork.com/

Madeleine Henstra, acting CEO of FDC Agency and co-founder of The Lekker Network talks to John Watson about the importance of community and communication in 2025.

They discuss the journey of The Lekker Network, what she brings to the team of founders, listening to members inputs and working with an amazing team to bring life to the vision.

They also discuss the role of women in networking, and how to leverage LinkedIn for business growth. Madeleine shares insights on personal branding, refining client experiences, and the value of having a personal board of advisors.

The conversation emphasizes the significance of collaboration and authenticity in building meaningful connections and how ⁨@thelekkernetwork⁩ is the perfect vehicle to connect you and your business around the world.

Connect with Madeleine Henstra here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeleine-henstra/

#therightplacepodcast #thelekkernetwork Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube

Engage with extraordinary South Africans around the world by joining The Lekker Network: https://thelekkernetwork.com/

Angela De Longchamps, CEO of Inspired Leadership Development, talks to John Watson about the critical issues of employee disengagement and the transformative role of leadership in fostering engagement.

They explore the complexities of modern workplaces, the importance of first-line managers, and the need for organizations to create a culture of listening and nurturing talent. Angela shares insights on her leadership development journeys, emphasizing the significance of consistent behavior change and the human factor in onboarding new employees.

The discussion also touches on Angela's personal growth and her vision for the future of Inspired Leadership Development, highlighting the value of networking and collaboration among South Africans abroad through The Lekker Network.

Connect with Angela De Longchamps here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-de-longchamps/ Watch This Episode On YouTube · Watch on YouTube