The Business of Influence - podcast cover

The Business of Influence

Style ID Africawww.styleid.co.za
Welcome to the ultimate podcast for all things influencer marketing. Join our hosts, Style ID Africa Director Tami Ruschin and award winning influencer Leroy Marc, as they delve into the dynamic influencer landscape. Every week, we bring you engaging conversations with a diverse range of guests, including brand managers, influencers, content creators, PR and media experts, and entrepreneurs. With a finger on the pulse of the industry, we explore topics that matter, from social and digital media to online trends, monetisation strategies, new technologies, and the ever changing landscape.
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Episodes

EPISODE 6 (Part 1) | Rooted & Radiant: How South African Beauty Founders Are Redefining Skin & Hair Culture

A new era of beauty is unfolding, one where African excellence leads, innovates, and redefines the global narrative. In this episode of The Business of Influence, we sit down with trailblazers Lisa and Kevin, two powerhouse South African founders transforming skin and hair culture through science, storytelling, and self-determination. These are brands born from heritage, science, and an unwavering commitment to serve communities that have long been overlooked. From skincare that resonates with m...

Aug 11, 202530 minSeason 3Ep. 6

EPISODE 5: Brands Love Culture, Until It Gets Loud

How far are brands willing to go when culture demands more than aesthetics?In this episode, we sit down with Siba Matshikiza to explore what happens when cultural alignment becomes uncomfortable. From heritage-washing to the performative use of black and brown creators, Siba unpacks the fine line between visibility and social listening in the South African creator economy.Watch, reflect, and join the conversation.Don’t forget to subscribe and turn on notifications for more unfiltered insights fr...

Aug 07, 202534 min

Episode 4 | Disrupt to Deliver: How Creators Are Rewriting Brand Playbooks

From content creators to brand architects, the game has changed. In this episode, Bongani Baloyi and Sefiso Hlongwane break down the rise of creator-led agencies, the shift from production to strategy, and how creators are now shaping campaigns from concept to execution.If you’re still treating creators as just content suppliers, you’re already behind.Follow Us On:Instagram: https://tr.ee/9MFBqITikTok: https://tr.ee/F5wHS1LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/72U7z0

Aug 07, 202531 min

Episode 3 | Rewriting South Africa’s Influencer Playbook with Sbahle Sithole

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Sbahle Sithole as she unpacks how South African brands and creators can build more intentional, credible, and culturally aligned influencer campaigns.From the changing face of influence to the responsibility that comes with shaping narratives online, this conversation takes an honest look at what’s broken and what it takes to rebuild. Expect bold insights, real talk, and tangible strategies for anyone looking to thrive in the ever-evolving creator econo...

Aug 06, 202538 min

Episode 2: New Wave Niches | What’s Hot and What’s Not: SA’s Influencer Niches Exposed

Reviewing the niches. The traditional lanes of beauty, fashion, fitness, tech and food have expanded, giving rise to bold, intersectional subjects shaping SA’s digital culture.In this episode, we sit down with Livy Seboko to explore these new wave niches and the pioneers who are redefining what it means to influence and win in 2025.Subscribe, comment, and follow us @styleidafrica.

Aug 06, 202546 min

Episode 1: Trending or Trapped | How Pop Culture is Shaping Creators in 2025

In this premiere episode of Season 3, Leroy Marc is joined by powerhouse guests Yolanda and Mack for a raw, unfiltered conversation about the state of the creator economy in 2025.From algorithm-driven identity to cultural currency, we ask: Is pop culture helping creators grow, or boxing them into trends they didn’t choose?Together, they unpack the pressure to stay relevant, the performance of authenticity, and how creators can navigate virality with intention.Subscribe, tag a fellow creator, and...

Aug 04, 20251 hr 10 min

Cooking Up a Storm: A Taste of Season 3

Season 3 of The Business of Influence is here, and we’re spicing things up! Join Leroy & Tami in the kitchen as they serve real talk and hot takes, recapping standout moments from Seasons 1 & 2, and giving you a sneak peek of what’s cooking in the new season. Expect your favourite personalities to make an appearance, deeper insights and fresh conversations on the evolving world of influence in 2025! Subscribe, tag a friend and drop a comment below on what you want to see this season! Lis...

Jun 10, 202514 min

The Future of Artificial Intelligence, Voice Search & Chatbots

The final episode of season 2 answers all of our audience’s long-standing questions about the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In today's special episode, Tami Ruschin and Leroy Marc, discuss how AI can revolutionise your social media influence. We get our valuable insights from special guest Stephanie Gomes, Full Stack Developer at Style ID Africa.

May 29, 202435 min

Why Style ID Africa: Innovating Influencer Marketing Across The Content

In today’s episode of The Business Of Influence Podcast we have an exclusive chat with Savon Matjane, the Innovation and Marketing Lead at Style ID Africa! Discover why we're Africa's leading influencer platform and how we're reshaping influencer marketing across the continent.

May 22, 202444 min

Scaling Influencer Marketing for Both Brands and Influencers

In this episode, Leroy Marc and Tami Ruschin explore the complexities and nuances of scaling influencer marketing for brands and influencers. Our in-house experts share their tips, insights, strategies, and firsthand experiences.

Apr 25, 202434 min

Real-time Marketing and Newsjacking

It’s Episode 6 of The Business Of Influence Podcast 🎙️ and we’re diving straight into the of real-time marketing and newsjacking with your hosts Leroy Marc and Tami Ruschin. This time they're joined by a very special guest, Wilmarie van der Merwe, the Head of Social and Influence at Total Exposure! 🌟 Gain insights from a bonafide industry expert as she dissects strategies for navigating the digital age! 📱

Apr 17, 202438 min

Strategies for Overcoming Creative Blocks and Innovative Ideas

Episode 5 of The Business of Influence podcast is live! 🎙️ Leroy Marc is joined by Thuso Sekhaolelo, COO at Total Exposure, and Mashudu Nenjelele, Digital Marketing Specialist at Wonder Social, and they dive into strategies for overcoming creative block and fostering innovative influencer marketing ideas. Discover actionable strategies to maximiSe your impact and elevate your influencer marketing game.

Apr 10, 202432 min

Navigating Budget Constraints & Resource Limitations

In this week’s episode, Leroy Marc is joined by special guests Thuso Sekhaolelo, COO at Total Exposure & Mashudu Nenjelele, Digital Marketing Specialist at Wonder Social. Join us as we tackle the ins and outs of navigating budget constraints & resource limitations in the influencer marketing space, and share experiences and strategies for maximising impact while working within budget and resource constraints.

Apr 03, 202441 min

Influencer Round Table: From The Creators’ Point of View | Bonus Epsiode

Part 2 of the raw and unfiltered Influencer Round Table: From The Creators’ Point of View 🎙️ Join special guests Ponahalo Mojapelo & Siseko Nontlahla alongside hosts Tami Ruschin and Leroy Marc as they dive deep into the real talk about the influencer marketing industry, where your industry favourites discuss the raw truth of content creation in this uncut and unhinged Xtra episode!

Mar 27, 202416 min

The Influencer Round Table: From Creators' Point Of View

"The Influence Round Table: From Creators' View" with hosts Tami Ruschin & Leroy Marc and special guests Ponahalo & Siseko! Tune in for insights into modern content creation and gain exclusive firsthand experiences that will revolutionise your approach to content creation. From insider insights to creative strategies, this episode offers a unique perspective on shaping digital narratives and engaging audiences.

Mar 20, 202439 min

New Age Content Marketing

In episode 2, hosts Tami Ruschin and Leroy Marc delve into "new age" content marketing, unveiling strategies to deliver an unparalleled experience for Gen Z and Millennial audiences. From harnessing the power of emerging platforms to creating customer-centric content that resonates, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your marketing game!

Mar 14, 202445 min

The Art of Emotional Intelligence

The Evolution Continues! ✨ Welcome back to Season 2 of the Business of Influence Podcast! 🎙️ Episode 1 is LIVE, and your hosts Tami Ruschin and Leroy Marc are back with a bang, unraveling the intricate art of Emotional Intelligence in the Influencer Marketing and Digital Marketing landscape. 🧠 From the dynamic shifts in the influencer landscape to the crucial role of authenticity, join us as we explore the key elements that fuel success in this ever-evolving digital era.

Mar 06, 202429 min

How to travel like an influencer

In South Africa, November, December and January are like the Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the year and we want to prep you in style. With the festive season on the rise, we're thinking about tropical beaches, luscious mountainscapes and all the best road trips. But how do you navigate this as an influencer? If you've taken our advice all season, you'll eventually reach the point where a brand might fly, drive or cruise you out to a lovely locale for a shoot, campaign, or special project. In ou...

Nov 16, 202335 minSeason 1Ep. 8

Budgeting and money management for influencers and content creators

This week's episode is a big one: we're talking about money! We've all seen influencers earn thousands and millions but as high as our earning potential can be, it's not always consistent. Between 40-day payment periods to freelancer tax or the months when income just isn't as consistent, you need to be able to stay afloat throughout it all. We get into budgeting tips, when and if you should register as a business, what expenses you can write-off, and bootstrapping to fund your career. We can't ...

Nov 14, 202342 minSeason 1Ep. 7

Understanding influencer contracts and regulations

So you've finally done it! You've built an audience, you've made the right connections and now you're about to begin your first brand partnership. But how much of the contract do you actually understand? Usage fees, duration, breach - oh my! In the latest episode of The Business of Influence, we're breaking down influencer agreements, settling disputes and making sure you don't get into trouble with any advertising regulators. Our guest this week Katleho Mokhosi , Director & Partner at Nhlap...

Oct 24, 20231 hr 24 minSeason 1Ep. 6

How to pivot as an influencer with Brett Robson

Have you ever thought about who the oldest influencer in the world is? Or what the life cycle of an influencer looks like? Where should you career if you don't quit or get cancelled. In the latest episode of The Business of Influence Podcast, we look at all the ways you can use your time as an influencer or content creator to pivot to new and exciting careers. Perhaps it's starting your own fashion brands like our guest, Brett Robson the founder of Shop Brett Robson and co-founder of Imprecca . ...

Oct 17, 202351 minSeason 1Ep. 5

From image to income: how to craft your personal brand

We're super excited to present the latest episode of the Business of Influence Podcast because this one's really for everyone. In today's world, everyone needs to establish a personal brand - a uniquely YOU image in the online and professional realms. Your personal brand can be the key to leverage your LinkedIn profile into a successful career or standing out in a saturated market as a content creator. Tune in to learn more about: What is a personal brand How to define your personal brand throug...

Oct 06, 202336 minSeason 1Ep. 4

How brands can create culture and community

This one's for the brands! Whether you're a small business owner, a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur, or part of a global company, we get into how influencer marketing can drive your business growth. Beauty on TApp founder, Mathebe Molise joins Leroy and Tami to discuss her entrepreneurship journey, how she stays true to her audience, and valuable insights for anyone in business. And don't worry, influencers, there's tons of valuable insights for you too. Perhaps you're considering new monetisation ...

Sep 29, 202336 minSeason 1Ep. 3

Finding your niche, conquering TikTok, and the decisions that influence your creator career

One of the most important decisions you have to make as a creator is figuring out is your why and where. However, should influencers be confined to one category? Is this even still relevant? Do you need to be on every social media platform or focus on a single one? In this episode, Leroy and Tami discuss choosing social media platforms, what works best for brand collaborations and whether it still matters to niche down. We're also joined by TikTok creator and PR practitioner, Nombulelo Fox ( @u_...

Sep 15, 20231 hr 5 minSeason 1Ep. 2

What it really means to be an influencer in 2023

The influencer landscape has drastically transformed since it's an inception. Leroy and Tami present a beginner's guide to influencer marketing, breaking down exactly what constitutes an influencer, how the landscape's changed, and what it takes for brands and creators to succeed in this day and age. Tune into to learn more about the South African and global economy, the importance of authenticity, and how online creators can move from the entertain space to professional influencers. The Busines...

Sep 08, 202337 minSeason 1Ep. 1
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