The Dylan Kohlstadt Show

AI, VC Funding and the Boring Things That Kill Startups | Bertram Richards & Beverley Knoesen

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 08:00:00 GMT

If you’re building a tech startup, scaling a SaaS platform or preparing for your next VC round, this episode covers the risks most founders only discover once something breaks. AI now lets anyone code in days what used to take years, yet positioning, security, documentation and succession planning still decide which businesses survive the jump to scale.

I’m joined by Bertram Richards, who mentored me in the early Bandwidth Barn days when Shift ONE was still in incubation, and his wife Beverley Knoesen, an IT executive who learned to code in DOS and has spent her career implementing technology at corporate scale. Together they run Maven Solutions, where Bertram has coached more than a hundred startups over 28 years. We unpack the developer talent gap agentic AI is quietly creating, how VCs now profile investment by sector, why clean data has become a valuable digital asset, and the sovereignty risks every African builder should understand before scaling.

In this episode:

The junior developer pipeline problem that will surface in five years
Why human adoption still lags far behind the speed of code
What VCs look for in due diligence beyond the financials
Why fintech still attracts over 40% of VC funding, and the rise of health, edtech and agritech
How enterprises are adopting AI cautiously as platform partnerships shift
AI abuse case studies, security spend and why your data is now an asset
Africa’s infrastructure opportunity and why geopolitical sovereignty matters for founders

Connect with Bertram and Beverley:
Maven Solutions: https://mavensolutions.co.za/
Beverley Knoesen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverley-knoesen-9b2a20a3/

Connect with Dylan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt
Website: https://dylankohlstadt.com
Shift ONE: https://shiftone.co.za
Listen on iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-dylan-kohlstadt-show-49576817/

#TheDKShow #VentureCapital #AIStartups #SouthAfricanTech #Entrepreneurship

The Global Economy in 2026: Oil Shocks, the Rand & What's Next

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 13:28:08 GMT

Freddie Mitchell, Chief Economist at Aluma Capital, joins me again to unpack the global economy, and this conversation could not be timelier.

We cover the conflict in the Middle East and its knock-on effect on oil prices and the Strait of Hormuz, why the rand has gained ground despite South Africa's own economic challenges, and what rising energy costs are doing to earnings and margins for companies worldwide.

Chapters:
0:00 – Welcome back: Freddie Mitchell, Chief Economist at Aluma Capital
1:04 – The global economy in three words: uncertainty, Hormuz, conflict
1:50 – Oil price swings and why the rand is gaining strength
2:52 – The knock-on effect on global business earnings and margins
3:45 – How fuel costs are hitting services and inflation
5:14 – Are we moving away from globalisation?
6:29 – What multinational and local businesses should watch for
8:32 – Tariffs, subsidisation and the social cost of cheap imports
10:28 – Which regions are best positioned for growth
12:36 – How businesses can prepare for a volatile global economy
16:13 – AI, data centres and the risk to jobs
19:00 – When should governments step in with regulation?
20:12 – How vulnerable is the global economy to the next shock?
25:01 – Where the next big opportunities lie: energy, rare earths and AI
27:27 – Closing thoughts and thank you

LinkedIn: / freddie-mitchell-economist
Aluma Capital: https://aluma.co.za

Why You're Losing Tenders (And How to Win More) with Larissa Cornelius

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Over November and December we submitted six tenders and didn't land a single one. I blamed price, so I asked Larissa Cornelius, CEO and Chief Win Strategist, where we really went wrong. Her answer changed how I'll approach every bid from here.

Larissa Cornelius, the CEO of Nfold and her team help companies win more proposals, tenders and pitches, and she has sat across the table from enough procurement teams to know exactly what gets a bid binned. It was the most practical half hour I've spent on business development this year.

In this episode:

Why compliance still knocks out more bidders than price ever does
The mistake of treating your proposal like a company profile
The difference between pricing to compete and pricing to win
Price-sensitive, functionality and quality buyers, and how each one decides
Why win rates are falling even as AI-written proposals multiply
The quickest way to lift your win rate by bidding on fewer opportunities

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:45 Winning Proposals and Tenders
4:11 Common Tendering Mistakes
9:09 Pricing and Value Strategy
14:31 Read and Filter Tender Requirements
17:14 Planning and Proposal Presentation
22:40 Services and Training Packages

If your business chases RFPs, RFQs or tenders, this conversation will save you weeks of wasted effort.

Get in touch with Larissa Cornelius: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissa-cornelius-winbusiness-proposals-salescollateral/n

Nfold: https://www.nfold.com/

Get in touch with Dylan Kohlstadt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/

Shift ONE B2B: https://shiftone.co.za/

#TheDKShow #Tenders #ProposalManagement #B2BSales #BusinessDevelopment

He Went Net Negative Before He Got Rich: Jose Berlanga on the Ugly Side of Success

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 08:18:01 GMT

Everyone sees the finished home, the successful developer, the published author. Nobody sees the years Jose Berlanga spent worse than broke, more debt than assets, wondering if he'd ever make money again. In this episode, the real estate developer behind Tricon Homes and Onix Residential (2,000+ homes built) gets brutally honest about what building a business actually costs.

Jose Berlanga and Dylan Kohlstadt talk about why "success is never linear," why the less you have the more you should be willing to risk, and why chasing money instead of purpose is one of the fastest ways to fail. Jose also opens up about his own struggle to delegate, why he thinks he might be the reason his businesses stay dependent on him, and the difference between building a business and building a practice that can't survive without you.

If you've ever felt like everyone else has it figured out and you're the only one struggling, this conversation is the reality check you need.

In this episode:

Why "how bad you want it" matters more than any business plan
Debunking the myth that hardship as a child guarantees drive as an adult
What it actually means to go "backwards to negative," not just back to zero
Jose's philosophy on risk: the less you have, the more you can afford to lose
Why his early motivation was money, and what eventually replaced it
Choosing business partners like you'd choose a spouse
The addictive trap of becoming the business instead of building one
Why writing four books hasn't made the process any easier

Connect with Jose Berlanga:
Website: https://joseberlanga.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-berlanga-900a9518/

Connect with Dylan Kohlstadt:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Website: https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Contact Dylan Kohlstadt for consulting:
dylan@shiftone.co.za

Work with Shift ONE to outsource your B2B marketing:
shiftone.co.za

#TheDKShow #Entrepreneurship #RealEstateDevelopment #BusinessLessons #Resilience

Subscribe to my channels / @dylankohlstadt

Connect with me on all my social platforms:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DylanKohlstadt/

Building a Purpose-Driven Brand | Norbert Elnar

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 08:00:00 GMT

"People follow people who are real, rather than people who are right."

This is just one of many insights quoted by Norbert Elnar, the latest guest on my podcast show and a seasoned brand builder. Norbert, born in the Philippines and now living in Germany, is the founder and CEO of Masterpiece Kingdom Brands, where he specialises in helping purpose-driven organisations craft their professional brands.

Tune in to hear more about:

- The journey of Masterpiece Kingdom Brands and Norbert’s role as a Chief Creative Officer.
- How to build brands for purpose-driven organisations.
- The importance of aligning brand values with organisational leadership.
- Norbert’s unique framework for brand building.
- How personal experience across different cultures has influenced Norbert’s branding approach.
- Tips for future-proofing your brand and ensuring it stays relevant and impactful.

If you're serious about brand building, watch this video. You'll learn how to build a brand with purpose and impact.

P.S. Here's a handy guide on how you, as a CEO, can use video to inspire your staff: https://www.shiftone.co.za/ceos-how-using-video-can-help-you-motivate-and-inspire-your-staff/

Also, remember to follow Norbert on his social platforms:
Website: https://masterpiecebrands.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterpiece.mvmnt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/norbert-elnar-b647217/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/masterpiecefaithmovement/?_rdc=2&_rdr
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07Iny3TgpzEAPKzJQ3iIvA

Get your free brand assessment here: https://masterpiecebrands.com/futureproofyourbrand
Buy Nortbert's book here: https://masterpiecebooks.com/

He Went Unbooked for 2 Years, Then Built a Personal Brand That Never Stops Working

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT

If you think personal branding is about bragging, this episode will change your mind. Andre Du Toit, "The Big Positive Guy," went two years without a single speaking booking after declaring himself a professional speaker. What he did next built him a career spanning nearly 20 years and a personal brand so strong that people recognise his wife from his posts alone. In this episode, Andre breaks down what actually separates speakers who get booked from speakers who don't, and why most CEOs are sitting on a thought leadership opportunity they're too nervous to use.

Andre and Dylan dig into why authenticity beats polish every time, how to figure out your personal values instead of confusing them with goals, and why giving content away for free is the fastest way to build trust that converts into business. Andre also shares his personal content model, the "silent majority" mindset that's shaped his public voice, and practical advice for any CEO or founder wondering how to step into the spotlight without losing themselves in the process.

In this episode:

Why Andre went two years without a booking, and what he did with that time
The difference between personal brand as self-promotion and personal brand as authenticity
How to identify your real values instead of chasing goals
Andre's content ratio for balancing personal and business posts
Why giving content away builds more trust than selling ever will
The "silent majority" approach to staying positive in a noisy world
Practical starting points for CEOs ready to build a public profile

Connect with Andre Du Toit:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigpositiveguy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoodNewsSouthAfrica

Connect with Dylan Kohlstadt:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt

#TheDKShow #PersonalBranding #ThoughtLeadership #B2BMarketing #PublicSpeaking

Growing Your Business from Garage to Global | Anthony Damian

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

#AskDKShow

In the latest episode of season 5 of the #AskDKShow I interview Anthony Damian, founder of global shipping software and AI technology company, Solverminds. In this episode, we discuss starting a company, his acquired experience, applying AI with big data, and how data analytics can help a business when done properly.

You're invited to join us in this informative conversation, where you'll gain valuable knowledge about the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship. From the humble beginnings in a garage to the global impact of Solverminds, this episode promises to shed light on the intricacies of marketing a business in the ever-evolving landscape of the shipping industry.

Subscribe to my podcast

Book me for a Keynote: https://dylankohlstadt.com/keynote-speaker/

Get mentored: https://dylankohlstadt.com/about-dylan/

Make sure to stay up to date and connect with me on all social platforms:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DylanKohlstadt/

B2B Leaders Series: Creating a Marketing Strategy in a Rapidly Changing World

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 08:00:00 GMT

While the basics of marketing, like audience and persona identification, may seem straightforward, they’re often overlooked - yet remain critical for success.

As B2B marketing shifts from cold outreach to relationship-driven approaches, longer buying cycles demand that marketers refine their strategies. In this webinar, we’ll walk you through the key pillars of B2B marketing that will help you adapt and thrive in a changing world:

Key Webinar Takeaways:
- Target Persona: Learn how to understand your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP), key decision-makers, and KPIs. We’ll also share a downloadable Target Market Table to assist in persona creation.
- Content Strategy: Explore strategies for long-form content, inbound lead generation, short-form videos, and user-generated content (UGC).
- Channel Strategy: Why LinkedIn should be your primary B2B platform, and how email marketing continues to play a vital role.
- Sales & Marketing Alignment: Discover how relationship-building and Account-Based Marketing (ABM) contribute to achieving higher ROI.
- Data, Tools & Technology: Dive into the best practices for Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO), attribution, HighLevel CRM, AI tools for content, and automation to drive more effective decisions.

The session concludes with a real-world case study highlighting how omni-channel lead generation can deliver remarkable results, showcasing how precise targeting and data-driven campaigns drive success.

Key Resources:
- Downloadable Target Market Table (available on the Shift ONE website)
- B2B Persona Tool: https://share.google/PduPJRZxPZlXqWU7J
- Shift ONE’s AI Webinar on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ykk04EMPZR8
- HighLevel CRM: https://www.gohighlevel.com/

This talk will help you rethink your audience understanding, align content to personas, and harness the power of campaigns and automation. By embracing these strategies, you’ll be well-positioned to navigate and succeed in a rapidly changing marketing world.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more webinars, insights, and strategies to help you level up your marketing game.

Follow Shift ONE Digital:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shiftONEdigital
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiftone_digital/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shiftonedigital/

#B2BMarketing #MarketingStrategy #DigitalMarketing #LeadGeneration #ContentMarketing #AIinMarketing #SalesAndMarketingAlignment #Automation #MarketingTools #ShiftONEWebinar #TargetPersona #AccountBasedMarketing

Small Business Development and Creating Successful Businesses | Sibusiso Raphekwane

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:00:00 GMT

"The best investment you can make is an investment in yourself. The more you learn, the more you'll earn." - Warren Buffett

I had the privilege of interviewing Sibusiso Raphekwane, the CEO and founder of The Transformation Legacy.

We spoke about the world of small business development and the importance of transformation in the entrepreneurial journey. Busi shared her wealth of knowledge and experience in helping small businesses thrive and create a lasting impact.

Watch this episode to learn:

- How Busi's organisation is transforming the narrative around small businesses and their potential for success.

- The importance of integrity, evolution, and financial management in building a business that outlives its founder.

- What to consider when choosing a business partner to ensure a successful and harmonious collaboration.

- Why investing in yourself as an entrepreneur is crucial for the growth and sustainability of your business.

I really enjoyed this session and found so much alignment in our goals and ways of thinking. Busi is an incredible inspiration, and I am excited for you to hear her insights.

Check out Busi's resources below:
Her website: www.busiraphekwane.com
Company website: www.transformationlegacy.com
The Transformation Legacy Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thetransformationlegacy9997

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below - I'd love to hear from you!

What Skills Do You Need As An Entrepreneur?

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 5 of the #AskDK Show! What skills do you need as an entrepreneur? Does Business Location matter? How to Expand into new markets and cause a Disruption.

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Why You Need the Enneagram and Maturity to Lead | Lucille Greeff

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT

"If personality is the lens through which we see the moment (that shows us who we are), then maturity is the journey we're always on," shares Lucille Greeff.

Join Dylan Kohlstadt for an engaging chat with Lucille Greeff, co-founder of Aephoria and organisational development practitioner, as they explore the fascinating interplay between maturity and personality in today's workplace.

Lucille Greeff brings her wealth of knowledge in organisational development to share how our personalities shape our reactions to stress and change.

Tune in to discover:

- The importance of maturity in today's volatile world.

- How a stable inner world prepares us for external upheaval.

- The traits of a mature leader.

- Maturity as a journey - and common misbeliefs.

- What helps us to mature?

- How can the Enneagram help marketers and businesses market themselves?

- And much more.

Listen in and share your thoughts in the comments. What's your Enneagram type? How do you see personality and maturity helping marketers?

#Maturity #ProfessionalGrowth #TeamDevelopment

How to Start a Podcast | Gavin Kennedy

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 14:00:00 GMT

In the first episode of season three, we’re looking at podcasts. It's hip, it’s happening and it’s the way of the future. I pick the brain of Gavin Kennedy, CEO, and founder of Solid Gold Podcasts Studios, for all you need to know about starting a podcast and what makes this medium so unique and awesome.

You can also check out this podcast in video form on my Youtube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aW2xGEsKWvw

On The Dylan Kohlstadt Show, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Following Successful Entrepreneurs on Their Journey | Kim Palmer

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:00:00 GMT

#AskDKShow Join us in the latest episode of Season 2 of the #AskDKShow, where host Dylan Kohlstädt engages in an inspiring conversation with Kim Palmer, the dynamic CEO and Founder of On the Ball College, South Africa's leading accredited IT and computer training academy. Palmer, renowned for her groundbreaking work in tech education, including launching the Learn2Boom online training portal and WeTrainICT, has played a crucial role in shaping future tech leaders.

You can reach Kim on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimpalmersa/?originalSubdomain=za

Let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK

Make sure to stay up to date and connect with me on all social platforms:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DylanKohlstadt/

And follow Kim on her other social media channels:
Facebook: kimpalmersa
Instagram: @instakimpalmer

#TopEntrepreneurs #CEOAdvice #MarketingInsight #ThoughtLeadership #Entrepreneurship #Podcast #StartupCompany

Career Advice and Mentorship | Takudzwa Vengai

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

#AskDKShow

In the latest episode of season 5 of the #AskDKShow, I met Takudzwa over a mentorship session. The young entrepreneur and founder of Maxfi, an online clothing brand, reached out to me, so we sat down over virtual coffee as I helped him navigate the ideas and plans he brought to our session, like how to grow his audience and turn them into buyers.

Subscribe to my podcast

Book me for a Keynote: https://dylankohlstadt.com/keynote-speaker/

Get mentored: https://dylankohlstadt.com/about-dylan/

Make sure to stay up to date and connect with me on all social platforms:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DylanKohlstadt/

The Challenges and Opportunities of AI in Marketing | David Brown

Dylan Kohlstadt — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:00 GMT

"If you're not out there getting clients before you have a product, you're already dead."

This might sound a bit dramatic, but it's true.

With that being said, I'd like to welcome my latest podcast guest. I had the pleasure of speaking with David Brown, founder of Futurehand Media, who shared his expertise on the transformative role of AI in marketing and business.

In this episode, we dive into:

- David's extensive experience in startups and media.

- How tools and platforms like ChatGPT enhance marketing efforts (David even recommend his favourites!)

- The challenges and opportunities presented by AI.

- The critical importance of early client acquisition.

- Balancing specific skills and cultural fit within your team.

David's insights into AI and his practical advice for startups were invaluable, and made for such an insightful session!

I'd love to hear your thoughts share your comments below.

Reach out to David through his social media platforms:
X - @withaifm
LI personal profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/4dmbrown/
LI podcast page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/withai-fm/

#AI #AIInMarketing #ArtificialIntelligence #DigitalMarketing #AITools

Collaboration, Pricing, and Vulnerability | Moira Johnston

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 2, episode 01 of the #AskDK Show! On This Show Today We Speak With Moira Johnston. Moira shares her journey as a successful female entrepreneur with a number of profitable businesses under her belt. We speak about Collaborations, Pricing Strategy, Vulnerability and Leadership.

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com.

Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

AI in Digital Marketing | Arthur Goldstuck

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 12:00:00 GMT

"AI can help anyone do what they do better," says Arthur Goldstuck, the acclaimed author of 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to AI'.

I had the privilege of chatting with Arthur Goldstruck about the future of AI, how it's shaking up industries worldwide, and yes, how it can take your job if you're not careful.

Tune in to learn:

- The evolution of prompt engineering.

- Real-world examples of AI's mistakes (and the teaching moments in each mistake).

- What could the future of AI look like?

- How CEOs can use AI in their SMEs.

- And much more.

I’d love to know your thoughts on this topic. How is AI reshaping your industry? How are you using AI in your professional life? Leave a comment!

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #AIInMarketing #AITechnology #CEOAdvice #MarketingInsight #Podcast #DigitalMarketing

Honest Talk About Sacrifices and Company Culture as an Entrepreneur

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 9 of the #AskDK Show! More insights into Entrepreneurship! Does having a Database matter? Also some honest talk about Sacrifices and Company Culture

Video Marketing is important for your business, Watch the Video Marketing Film https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVqP0...

#AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

The Pivot From SEO to EO | Irma Karsten

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

“We need to start answering questions and proving we’re the authority in our field,” says Irma Karsten.

AI is rewriting the rules of digital marketing, especially SEO, and I’ve got the perfect guest to unpack it all.

In today’s episode, I'm joined by the brilliant Irma Karsten, COO of the Digital Marketing Academy and head of strategy here at Shift ONE.

We’re diving deep into how AI is shaping SEO, from the rise of AI-generated copy that’s starting to look like the “stock images of words,” to the evolution of SEO into something much more personal and authority-driven.

We share real-world examples, like how we won a Dubai website project through ChatGPT search, and explore everything from zero-click searches to the importance of personalized content.

This one’s packed with actionable insights for marketers who want to stay ahead of the AI curve.

We dive into:

How AI is changing the face of digital marketing and SEO
Why “zero-click searches” and “ask engine optimization” are the future
Why personalization is still the ultimate differentiator.
The importance of owning your own digital assets—email lists > followers
The overlooked power of YouTube and how to create content bundles
Irma’s must-know dos and don’ts for AI-era marketing

Big thanks to Irma for sharing her expertise on this one. Her insights were golden.

Like, comment, subscribe, and share this episode. Let’s hear your thoughts. How are you using AI in your marketing strategy?

Dress Code, Professionalism, and Setbacks as an Entrepreneur

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 6 of the #AskDK Show! Does Dress Code matter when you're an entrepreneur? How do you Manage Setbacks and Staying Connected!

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Ask the Stupid Questions: Building a Sales Career from Scratch | Jacky Rossouw

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

From receptionist to Sales Director and Board Member at Lecico South Africa, Jacky Rossouw shares her 23-year journey of grit, learning, and relentless relationship-building across Africa.

In this episode, we cover:

-How Jacky went from unemployed to her first big break and used it as a launchpad for her career

- Why a learning mindset (not just hard work) was the real driver behind her growth into a sales leadership role

- The power of asking “stupid” questions and never pretending you understand when you don’t

- Letting go of day-to-day operations to empower senior staff, build a stronger sales team, and create a scalable business

- How Jacky built sales relationships across African markets by investing in culture, trust, and value, not just price

- Why sales is ultimately about connection, ease, customer experience, and making your customers’ lives simpler

If you're a business owner, entrepreneur, sales leader, or ambitious professional wondering how to grow your career without formal qualifications, overcome intimidation and learn on the job, open new markets in Africa, or step back from operations to focus on strategy and revenue growth, this conversation will inspire you to back yourself, pick up the phone, ask the questions, and build something meaningful.

Subscribe for more inspiring conversations on sales, marketing, business growth and leadership. Like, comment, and share if Jacky’s story resonated with you or helped you rethink your sales strategy.

#Sales #WomenInBusiness #CareerGrowth #AfricanBusiness #SalesStrategy #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #B2BMarketing #Leadership

Building Businesses - Can Ethics and Success Coexist? | Pete Ochs

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 09:00:00 GMT

"Business has a much greater calling than maximizing the financial bottom line and making shareholders wealthy," says Pete Ochs

Pete is the founder and CEO of Enterprise Stewardship, and when he joined me on the podcast, we dove deep into what it means for businesses to thrive. Not just financially, but spiritually and socially as well.

Pete's mission is simple: inspire business owners to create flourishing businesses that make an impact. In this conversation, we unpacked the true purpose of business and how it can create lasting change. Far beyond the bottom line.

Watch or listen to our conversation to find out:
- The three types of capital every business should focus on: economic, social, and spiritual
- Why business is about more than profits and how to build a purpose-driven company
- Pete's game-changing experience of employing inmates to create jobs and community impact
- The four pillars of Enterprise Stewardship and how they can shape your business
- Why generosity is the true measure of business success

The episode is live on YouTube

Big thanks to Pete for his insight and wisdom!

Folks, are you building a business that serves a higher purpose? B2B of B2C, it's time to think beyond profits.

Mentorship, Ideas, Networking and How to Sell on Social Media

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 03 of the #AskDK Show! Loads of nuggets and gems here. In this episode, we talk about Mentorship, Ideas, Networking and How to use Social Media to sell.

On the #AskDK Show we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com.

Why Peter Shankman Says His "Broken Brain" Is His Biggest Business Asset

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Peter Shankman only has two speeds: namaste, and out the door before you can stop him. As founder of Help A Reporter Out, a six-time bestselling author, and a leading voice on neurodiversity in the workplace, he's built an entire system around a brain that never idles.

Dylan sits down with Peter to unpack the life rules, the environments he engineers to kill decision fatigue, and the discipline behind writing a bestseller on two flights to Tokyo.

In this episode:
– The "life rules" that remove friction and protect focus
– Playing the tape forward: the technique that keeps discipline honest
– How gamification and algorithms are rewiring attention spans
– The stoplight system that made an office more neuro-inclusive
– The 50-minute rule for deep work without losing the plot to FOMO

Connect with Peter Shankman:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/petershankman
Website: shankman.com

Connect with Dylan:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt
Website: dylankohlstadt.com
Shift ONE: shiftone.co.za

#TheDKShow #PeterShankman #ADHD #Neurodiversity #Productivity #DeepWork #Neuroinclusion #DylanKohlstadt #ShiftONE #B2BMarketing

How to Take Your Brand to Page 1 of Google | Justin Lester

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 18 Nov 2019 15:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I chat with SEO guru Justin Lester, founder of the digital marketing agency, Ruby Digital in Cape Town. Justin spills the beans on how you can master SEO and take your business to the top of page one of Google.

On The Dylan Kohlstadt Show, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

How to Leave Corporate and Go Solo as an Entrepreneur

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the first episode of the #AskDK Show! This is the perfect way to start things off as we get into some practical tips on how to leave corporate and go it solo as an entrepreneur. Get ready!

On the #AskDK Show, I get to answer your questions about marketing, social media, and entrepreneurship. Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com.

Setbacks, Success, and a Closer Look at Latest Trends | Samantha Skyring

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 2, episode 3 of the #AskDK Show! In this episode, I chat with Samantha Skyring - CEO and founder of Oryx Desert Salt. Such an inspiring entrepreneur! Hear from Sam how she has built a global business after suffering massive personal setbacks. How she rose above it and took her brand with her.

#AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com.

Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

100 GPTs Is Just The Beginning | Nadio Granata

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 07:00:00 GMT

"Tech serves humans, not the other way around."

Words from the brilliant Nadio Granata, although I'd add: "For the time being!"

This episode has got to be the most re-scheduled podcast ever, thanks to myself and Nadio's busy schedules. But the wait was worth it - what a conversation. I hope you learn as much as I did listening to Nadio share his insights.

In this episode, we talked about AI and much more:

- How Nadio finds the knowledge and inspiration to create GPTs

- The urgent need for AI education, accessibility, and knowledge-sharing

- How one of Nadio's custom GPTs helps marketers manage data

- The reality of LinkedIn fatigue

- How to request and build a GPT with Nadio

You can check out Nadio's incredible GPT library here: https://nadio.ai/gpt-library/

Follow Nadio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadio/

Marketing Through a Pandemic | Ted Frazer

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 10:00:00 GMT

#AskDK Show - Season 4 - In the first episode of season 4 I interview Ted Frazer,

Business Growth Coach & National Head of Marketing for Seeff Properties.
We talk marketing strategies during a pandemic and the challenges businesses face especially with regards to customer retention and growth. We focus on authenticity, content marketing, customer behavior and traditional marketing vs digital marketing.

You can reach Ted on Linkedin here: https://za.linkedin.com/in/ted-frazer

In season 4 we interview top marketing managers and thought leaders who can inspire others in the industry.

Let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK

The Relationship Between Marketing and Tech | Nikki Cockcroft

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 09:00:00 GMT

AskDK Show - Season 4 - In the second episode of season 4 I interview Nikki Cockcroft,

Global Chief Marketing and Technology Officer at Virgin Active.

We talk about Marketing, IT and how the two interlink. We also discuss Re-thinking your Marketing Strategy, dealing with corporate life and answer burning questions like; Is Traditional Marketing Dead? What are the skills gaps in digital marketing? How to become a successful marketing manager and how to define digital marketing in your own way.

You can reach Nikki on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkicockcroft/

In season 4 we interview top marketing managers and thought leaders who can inspire others in the industry.

Let's Connect!

Live life with me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt

Be inspired LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/

Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt

Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/

Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Podcasts, Paid Advertising, and Unfiltered Creativity | Terence Mentor

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

"Be as crazy as possible. Be as open and broad-minded as you are, and then have people around you to pull you back down to the thing that's most workable."

Terence is a brutal podcast host (in the best way) and got me sweating with his tough questions.

So I got my own back! Well, kind of. Thanks Terence, for joining me for this episode and sharing your knowledge.

We spoke about:

- What makes podcasts uniquely valuable

- The key ingredients of an interesting podcast

- Why you should be as crazy-creative as possible

- Terence's favorite paid media platform (and why)

Guys let me know: what's your stance on podcasts? Yay or nay, and why?

Entrepreneurship, Mentorship, and Digital Marketing | Stephanie Anne De Abreu

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

#AskDKShow

In the latest episode of season 5 of the #AskDKShow I interview Stephanie Anne De Abreu, a young entrepreneur and founder of a skincare brand and product line, Jemm Wellness; we dived into topics like why strategy starts with the website, knowing her marketing strengths and weaknesses in her business, the importance of knowing her brand and what it does. We also discussed what it takes for her to get organised daily and create a strong online presence.

How Women Become Truly Rich | Julie Foucht

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 07:00:00 GMT

"Money is the energy of appreciation."

I jotted down that quote as soon as Julie Foucht spoke the words, and there are so many more nuggets of wisdom you just have to hear.

I got to chat with Julie about a topic not many people (especially CEOs) talk about: money. But it went way deeper than dollar signs. Julie went on to share how she believes intuition, feminine power, and money are connected.

Watch or listen to find out:

- How to unlock your gifts

- The messages the world sends to women

- Women's divine role

- How to be successful in business

Did this episode change your perspective on money? It definitely got me thinking! Let me know your thoughts.

What to Expect in Your First 6 Months as an Entrepreneur

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 02 of the #AskDK Show! I get to talk about what to expect in your first six months as an entrepreneur! What are a few daily habits that will help, a few things to watch out for and some of the challenges I have faced

On the #AskDK show, I get to answer your questions about marketing, social media, and entrepreneurship. Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com.

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

How to Follow Your Dreams | Carl Smythe

Dylan Kohlstadt — Sat, 05 Oct 2019 19:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 2, episode 05 of the #AskDK Show. Today we are talking to one of the most inspiring people I've ever met, Carl Smyth, founder, and owner of Pinnacle Marketing. Carl comes from an insurance company and, when he noticed there was a market for mobile device insurance, started his own company. He faced many challenges, but he made it work!

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

How to Build Brand Love Among Your Audience | Heidi Brauer

Dylan Kohlstadt — Wed, 07 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"Consumers are not sitting around waiting to fall in love with you," says Heidi Brauer.

When it comes to brand love and building brands, Heidi Brauer is an absolute guru. She joined me on my podcast to chat about brand love, what it means, and what it takes, and shared plenty of other marketing gems I scribbled down mid-conversation (and I bet you will too).

Watch or listen to our conversation to find out:

- The meaning of brand love (and how to measure it)

- What it takes to build brand love

- A new way of thinking about strategy

- Why it's key to look beyond "hygiene factors"

- The danger of digital fatigue (and how to market through the chaos)

The episode is also live on YouTube.

Thanks Heidi, for your wisdom, humor, and insight!

Folks are you building brand love? B2B or B2C, get on it.

Expert Finance Advice | The Finance Ghost

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 13:00:00 GMT

#AskDKShow

Join me as I host The Finance Ghost, the anonymous thought leader shaking up the finance industry, on my podcast. Discover the secrets to their success and gain valuable insights in this must-listen episode. Don't miss out on learning from the brilliant mind behind The Finance Ghost.

Subscribe to my podcast

Book me for a Keynote: https://dylankohlstadt.com/keynote-speaker/

Get mentored: https://dylankohlstadt.com/about-dylan/

Make sure to stay up to date and connect with me on all social platforms:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DylanKohlstadt/

How to Differentiate Your Brand, Monetize Your Idea, and Advertise

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 7 of the #AskDK Show! How do you stand out with Brand Differentiation? How do you Monetize your idea? Plus a few nuggets on Advertising and Current Business Landscape.

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Get Started With YouTube Marketing | Danilo Acquisto

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Join Dylan Kohlstädt and CEO and co-founder of Special Effects Media, Danilo Acquisto, as they delve into using YouTube as a successful marketing platform.

Danilo discusses how Special Effects Media was founded and provides valuable insight for individuals and businesses who want to use YouTube as a successful marketing tool.

Dylan and Danilo share their thoughts on YouTube as a marketing tool and Danilo shares important tips on how to create a successful YouTube channel, how to create and control your content on YouTube as well as how to earn money on YouTube and how to gain more YouTube followers!

The Flawed Agency Model | Stuart Dunk

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 11:00:00 GMT

"In an undifferentiated category, many agencies look and sound the same, which leads to a price-focused negotiation - a race to the bottom where procurement looks at who can do the work the cheapest."

Stuart Dunk has a message for all agency and business owners who are fighting for a seat at a very crowded table.

You'll have to watch (or listen to) the interview to hear it, plus:

What most agencies are doing wrong
One piece of advice for struggling small agencies
What is the sea of sameness and can it be the death of an agency
A little-known pitching hack for agencies

The full episode is now live on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rStwFL5hMkM

For a more in-depth look at the agency model, warts and all, read Stuart's insights (and warnings) in this blog: https://shiftone.co.za/agencies-drowning-in-a-sea-of-sameness/

Now what's your opinion on the agency model? Are we doomed to fail? What pivot do you see successful agencies making? Keen to hear your thoughts, so go ahead and share!

How to Differentiate Your Brand | Khensani Nobanda

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Khensani Nobanda, the Group Managing Executive of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank, shares her insights on purpose-led marketing, leadership, and how Nedbank is shaping the future of brand strategy.

Khensani dives deep into Nedbank’s approach to brand-building and leadership, emphasizing the importance of purpose in everything they do. Discover how the company’s brand strategy works like an iceberg, with advertising as just the tip and a deeper, more impactful commitment to community beneath the surface.

Key Takeaways from this Interview:
Purpose-driven Strategy: How Nedbank’s focus on impact extends to their small business initiatives and their commitment to a greener economy.
Campaign Success: The groundbreaking “Time is More Valuable Than Money” campaign and its innovative digital approach.
Brand Differentiators: Why Nedbank stands out through purpose, financial expertise, and bold inspiration.
Khensani’s Leadership Journey: Hear about her experience in leadership, the mentorship that shaped her, and the lessons she’s learned.
Advice for Young Marketers: Khensani’s tips on cultivating curiosity, passion, and balancing creativity with logic.

This conversation offers a wealth of knowledge for marketers and leaders alike, offering inspiration, practical advice, and a glimpse into the future of marketing in South Africa.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful conversations with Africa’s top marketing leaders.

What’s your take on purpose-led marketing? Share your thoughts below!

Investors to Africa | Kumbirai Chipadza

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 03:00:00 GMT

#AskDKShow

In the first episode of season six of the #AskDKShow, I got to sit down with Kumbirai Chipadza, a Zimbabwean businessman based in Germany. Kumbirai founded DeutschConnect to provide information, knowledge sharing and consultancy to the African and German markets.
We discuss his journey in starting DeutschConnect, the African startup ecosystem, specific sectors and industries that he focuses on and success stories of African companies that DeutschConnect has successfully matched with German investors.

Subscribe to my podcast

Book me for a Keynote: https://dylankohlstadt.com/keynote-speaker/

Get mentored: https://dylankohlstadt.com/about-dylan/

Make sure to stay up to date and connect with me on all social platforms:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DylanKohlstadt/

Social Network, Team Building and Project Decisions | Marc Buhrer

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 2, episode 02 of the #AskDK Show! We speak with Marc Buhrer, Game For Humanity, Founder. Learn about Marc's incredible journey as well as his amazing adventures in building a number of different businesses and brands along the way.

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt .
Be inspired with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com.

Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

The Evolution of AI in Business and Marketing | Katie King

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 13:00:00 GMT

AskDK Show - Season 5 - In the latest episode of season 5 of the #AskDKShow I interview Katie King, CEO of AI in Business.

In this episode, we discuss the evolution of Artificial Intelligence in Business and Marketing.

Follow Dylan Kohlstädt on all platforms here!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/DylanKohlst%C3%A4dt
Podlink: https://pod.link/1485390547

#AIInBusiness #ArtificialIntelligence #askdkshow

Follow Katie King on all platforms here!
Katie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiekingmba/?hl=en
Katie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieeking/

A Guide to Impact Investing | Nadia El-Tawil

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT

"If you want your business to grow, you need to have processes in place."

Ditching the usual investor stereotype, Nadia El-Tawil shows up with warmth and a personalised approach to helping businesses grow through impact investing.

She's a true fount of knowledge. Chatting with her was a delight.

We spoke about:

- How to take your business to the next level

- Nadia's passion and vision for impact investing

- The value of outside expertise in your SME

- Why and how to embrace discomfort

- What partnership looks like in impact investing

Follow Nadia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neltawil/

The Risks and Rewards of Change | Kathryn Strachan

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 07:00:00 GMT

"For me, selling my business felt like going through a breakup."

Business owners, do yourself a favor and listen to my latest podcast episode with Kathryn Strachan (Fractional CMO, author, award-winner...the list goes on; she's a powerhouse).

You'll find out:

- The best time to sell your business

- The most underrated skill in marketing

- What holds companies back from scaling their business

- How to get started with personal branding

- And what is, in my opinion, the worst business model EVER.

Follow Kathryn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-strachan/

Order her new book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/b4eswUr

P.S. Thank you, Kathryn, for your vulnerability in sharing your story and experience! You're an inspiration and this convo was an exciting one for me (and will be for listeners too, I'm sure).

Mentorship, Startups, and Failure | Judy Walter

Dylan Kohlstadt — Sat, 05 Oct 2019 19:00:00 GMT

Today I'm talking to Judy Walter (Coffee Capsules Direct | Co-founder and marketing manager) about the importance of mentorship, finding the right business partner, starting up your business and learning from your mistakes. Judy and her partner have built a huge global brand, all with hard work, passion and excellence!

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com.

Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

What You Need to Know About Facebook Advertising | Adam Spires

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 26 Nov 2019 10:00:00 GMT

Vlogger Adam Spires has built an impressive following on Facebook with just under 50 000 followers and around 6000 on YouTube. He’s a dad and the founder of video content creation company Delicious Bokeh. I pick his brain on how he’s built up such a strong following and how to navigate the often complex social media space.

On The Dylan Kohlstadt Show, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Why Digital and AI Transformations Fail | Jay Tikam

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Why Digital and AI Transformations Fail

"Digital transformation isn't just about adopting the latest technology," says Jay Tikam, founder of Vedanvi. In this insightful podcast, Jay shares his expert take on why 70% of digital and AI transformations fail and how businesses can avoid common pitfalls.

In our conversation, Jay explains the critical difference between a "technology first" and a "transformation first" mindset. He unveils his "Transform Digital" model, a stakeholder-driven approach that ensures technology supports, rather than leads, your transformation journey.

Watch or listen to discover:

Why digital and AI transformations fail and how to flip the script
The “Transform Digital” framework and why it’s a game changer
How to navigate the three stakeholder levels: Customers, Enablers, and Influencers
The importance of discovering "pillar zero" before jumping on the tech train
The key outcomes of transformation: Optimisation, Growth, and True Transformation

If you’re a leader looking to future-proof your business, this conversation is a must-listen! Jay’s advice on transparency, communication, and the right approach to change is invaluable.

Thank you to Jay for his wisdom, and thanks to all of you for tuning in!

Are you facing challenges with digital transformation in your business? What’s your biggest hurdle? Let us know in the comments below.

Subscribe to my channel for more forward-thinking insights:

Dylan Kohlstädt

Follow Dylan Kohlstädt on social:

Instagram: @dylankohlstadt
LinkedIn: @dylankohlstadt
Facebook: @dylankohlstadt
X: @dylankohlstadt

Shift ONE Digital

https://www.shiftone.co.za

The Digital Marketing Academy

https://digitalmarketingacademy.co.za

Pricing, Monetization, and Digital Marketing vs Traditional Marketing

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 8 of the #AskDK Show! Pricing, Mediums For Monetization, Business Expansion Factors and Digital Marketing vs Conventional Marketing.

Video Marketing can increase conversion for your business, Watch the Video Marketing Film https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVqP0...

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT! Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Public Speaking, Vulnerability, and Finding Your Voice | Simon Ekin

Dylan Kohlstadt — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 22:00:00 GMT

"Vulnerability is the birthplace of creativity."

And wow, this was definitely a first for me. I interviewed someone on my podcast, and to my surprise... he was naked.

Welcome to this wholly unique and eye-opening episode, in which I sat down with the extraordinary Simon Ekin, famously known as The Naked Speaker.

Watch the episode to learn:

- The significance of vulnerability and authenticity in connecting with your audience.

- Cultural differences and personal experiences that shape perspectives.

- Insights on finding your unique voice and tribe in the thought leadership space.

- The balance between masculine and feminine energies in leadership and personal development.

- Simon's heartfelt story about the impact of body shaming and the importance of self-love and compassion.

If you want to learn more about Simon's work or get a copy of his Mojo process, reach out to him below.

Reach out to Simon here:
simon@thenakedspeaker.com
+27 82 565 0765

Or follow him on his social media platforms:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonekin/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SimonEkinTheNakedSpeaker
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simon.ekin/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenakedspeaker
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SimonEkinTheNakedSpeaker/
LinkTree (Everything in one place) https://linktr.ee/simonekin
Website: www.thenakedspeaker.com

Starting a Business, Getting Clients, Intuition and Delegation

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to season 1, episode 04 of the #AskDK Show! Thinking of Starting a Business? You'll need to get customers! How do you go about Acquiring Clients, the role of Intuition and Delegation?

On the #AskDKShow, we chat with inspiring people, learning how to #begreat, from marketing, social media and especially entrepreneurship, let's learn and grow together. Don't be good, be GREAT!

Want to get on to the show? Tweet me your questions with #AskDK!

Let's Connect!
Live life with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt
Be inspired LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/
Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/

Dylan Kohlstadt has over 20 years of marketing and digital management experience in gaming, insurance, financial and property industries and can be considered a subject matter expert on all things digital. She has extensive local and international experience (South Africa, UK, and Australia), and has managed global and national brands in multiple languages and countries. Dylan has an IMM in Marketing as well as an MBA. She’s married and a mother of two young girls, and is the CEO and Founder of Shift ONE Digital, the Digital Marketing Academy and DylanKohlstadt.com. Check out my businesses! Shift ONE will do the work for you. Digital Marketing Academy will teach and train you on how to do it yourself. And Dylan Kohlstadt (that's me) can coach and mentor you and help you work out your strategy.

Technology and People | Ryan Hogarth

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT

For the fifth and final episode of Season 3, listen in to Ryan Hogarth’s interview with Dylan Kohlstädt on his show Spheres of Influence where they talk about all things technology and all things people.

Dylan and Ryan chat about that changes brought about by the current pandemic as well as the technology that is changing the way that interactions with others, business and marketing is done.

They focus on trends regarding the consumption of marketing and media during this time as well as the changes In marketing that Dylan has seen over the last few years. Chatting about consumption of marketing and media during this time

During the show, Dylan discusses her company, Shift ONE Digital, an integrated marketing agency, and shares some insights on how she helps the companies and businesses that she works with to grow in an integrated way.

Dylan and Ryan chat about the channels that work as well as those that don’t and shares insights on the role and value of both print and digital media today.

Why Your Agency Is Losing Deals (And How to Fix It) | Gordon Henry

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Gordon Henry spent years on the other side of the table – as a procurement manager deciding which agencies made the cut and which didn't. Now, as co-founder of IAN (Independent Agency Network), he's using that insider knowledge to help independent agencies stop underselling themselves, compete with the global giants, and finally take their seat at the table.

Shift ONE is a proud member of IAN, and in this episode Dylan sits down with Gordon to talk about what's really holding agencies back – and what it takes to turn things around.

They get into rate cards, repositioning, differentiation, and the uncomfortable truths most agency owners avoid. If you run an agency – or work in one – this conversation will challenge how you think about your value.

In this episode:
Why so many agencies are stuck – and how to diagnose it
What procurement managers actually look for (and what disqualifies you immediately)
How to build a rate card that reflects your real worth
What it means to be distinct in a crowded market
How IAN helps independent agencies compete on a global stage
And so much more you'll just have to watch!

Connect with Gordon Henry & IAN:

Independent Agency Network – https://ianetwork.co.za
Gordon Henry on LinkedIn – / gordon-henry-189b6726

Connect with Dylan:

LinkedIn: / dylankohlstadt
Website: dylankohlstadt.com
Shift ONE: shiftone.co.za

#TheDKShow #AgencyGrowth #IndependentAgency #IAN #GordonHenry #AgencyLife #B2BMarketing #MarketingAgency #AgencyBusiness #DylanKohlstadt #ShiftONE #RateCards #AgencyDifferentiation #MarketingLeadership #AgencyTurnaround

From Zero Cash to Top Rated App | Join Dylan Kohlstadt and ProfileMe CEO, Rizanne

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Rizanne, CEO and Founder of ProfileMe, joins The DK Show to unpack how professionals can get the digital version of themselves into their clients' pockets, making a great first impression, building trust faster, and staying top of mind.

ProfileMe is South Africa's #1 client engagement tool, giving professionals one link to share everything clients need to do business with them: contact details, social profiles, booking links, and more. No designer, no developer, no big budget required.

In this episode, Rizanne breaks down:
– How fully customisable digital profiles keep brand consistency across teams, big or small
– Why one link beats a stack of business cards and PDFs
– How teams become brand ambassadors with individual profiles, instant updates, and zero print waste
– The simple process: sign up, pick your profession, choose a look, and make it yours

If you're in financial services, professional services, or any client-facing industry, this conversation shows exactly how to turn a digital profile into a competitive edge.

Check out ProfileMe - https://profileme.app

🎧 Watch the full episode for the practical breakdown of how ProfileMe works.

#TheDKShow #ProfileMe #ClientEngagement #DigitalProfile #B2BMarketing #FinancialServices #PersonalBranding #SouthAfricanBusiness #ThoughtLeadership #DylanKohlstadt

B2B Leaders Series: Marketing to Engineers

Dylan Kohlstadt — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT

Marketing to engineers is not the same as marketing to general B2B buyers. In this Marketing to Engineers webinar, Shift ONE’s CEO Dylan Kohlstädt unpacks exactly how technical buyers think, research, and make decisions. If you’re serious about marketing to engineers in industrial, manufacturing, or technical sectors, this session is for you.

In this webinar, you’ll learn how to:

Understand engineers: Why engineers prioritise data, facts, performance, and measurable results over flashy campaigns.
Speak their language: How clear, educational, and data-backed content builds trust with technical audiences.
Map how engineers buy: Navigate long, research-heavy buying cycles and engage them at every touchpoint – from your website to YouTube.
Reach engineers where they are: Use AI optimisation, SEO, and video content to support your marketing to engineers strategy across platforms.
Leverage trade shows properly: Turn trade show stands into lead engines using LinkedIn, QR codes, and follow-up journeys.
Build a content strategy engineers trust: Thought leadership, technical blogs, data sheets, and case studies that reduce perceived risk.
Choose the right channels: Focus on LinkedIn, email, and an omnichannel presence that supports complex B2B buying decisions.
Measure what matters: Use tools like Google Analytics and HighLevel to track leads, pipeline, and ROI from your marketing to engineers campaigns.
Run Account-Based Marketing (ABM): Target key accounts with tailored campaigns and content that speaks to specific technical and commercial needs.

Key takeaways:

Optimise your website, SEO, and YouTube presence around how engineers actually search.
Build credibility with data-driven case studies, technical proof, and testimonials.
Create educational video content that engineers can rely on, not just gimmicks.
Continuously track, measure, and refine your marketing to engineers strategy.

Want to implement these strategies for your brand?

Subscribe to Shift ONE’s YouTube channel for more expert-led B2B marketing webinars.

Resources:
Download the FREE Marketing to Engineers Cheat Sheet here: https://shiftone.co.za/marketing-to-e...
Download our Target Market Table here: https://shiftone.co.za/target-market-...

Why CEOs Must Foster A Culture Of Innovation | Lars Veul

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 15:00:00 GMT

AskDK Show - Season 5 - In the third episode of season 5 of the #AskDKShow I interview Lars Veul, Founder of Co-Founder and Director of Pargo.

In this episode, we discuss why CEOs must foster a culture of innovation in their businesses.

Follow Dylan Kohlstädt on all platforms here!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlst
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohl
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu3H
Podlink: https://pod.link/148539054

#innovation #entrepreneurship #dylankohlstadtshow #askdkshow

Follow Lars Veul on LinkedIn! Lars's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lars-veul-4987184b/

Why CEOs Need to Be Speakers | Richard Mulholland

Dylan Kohlstadt — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 12:00:00 GMT

AskDK Show - Season 5 - In the first episode of season 5 of the #AskDKShow I interview Richard Mulholland, Founder of the Missing Link.

In this episode, we discuss why CEOs should be speakers and the importance of CEOs becoming thought leaders within their industry.

Follow Dylan Kohlstädt on all platforms here!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlst...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohl...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt
Twitter: @dylankohlstadt
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu3H...
Podlink: https://pod.link/1485390547

Follow Richard Mulholland on all platforms and check out his YouTube channel!
Richard's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMrw...
Richard's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richmulholl...
Richard's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardmu...

The Power of Personal Branding | Nic Haralambous

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 10:00:00 GMT

#AskDKShow

In the latest episode of season 5 of the #AskDKShow I interview Nic Haralambous, a leading entrepreneur and motivational speaker for industry, corporate and educational audiences across the globe. We discuss the importance of personal branding in business and marketing.

Subscribe to my podcast

Book me for a Keynote: https://dylankohlstadt.com/keynote-speaker/

Get mentored: https://dylankohlstadt.com/about-dylan/

Make sure to stay up to date and connect with me on all social platforms:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylankohlstadt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DylanKohlstadt/

How to Optimise Your LinkedIn | Lauren Kinghorn

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 15 May 2020 06:00:00 GMT

In the fourth episode of this series, I chat to Lauren Kinghorn, who is also known as the Visionary Digital Entrepreneur, about LinkedIn. Lauren is passionate about this space and has used it to create a strong tribe of mompreneurs, fempreneurs, speakers and indie authors.

If you want to optimise your own LinkedIn profile and create connections that are both qualitative and quantitative then this inspiring episode is for you.

The Truth About South Africa's Economy – Freddie Mitchell, Chief Economist at Aluma Capital

Dylan Kohlstadt — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMT

What's really happening to the South African economy – and what businesses must do now.

Dylan Kohlstadt sits down with Freddie Mitchell, Chief Economist at Aluma Capital, for an unfiltered look at the economic forces shaping South Africa in 2025 and beyond.

Freddie has advised government, worked inside SARS, and spent years analysing what drives (and stalls) economic growth. In this episode, he breaks down what business leaders in industrial, manufacturing, and capital-intensive sectors need to understand right now – from interest rate trajectories and infrastructure constraints to AI adoption and the role of government in enabling (or hindering) growth.

This is the conversation South African business owners and executives need to have.

In this episode:
– The real state of the South African economy
– Interest rates: relief or false hope?
– Infrastructure gaps and what they mean for industry
– AI adoption in an emerging market context
– What government is getting right – and where it's falling short
– Key risks for industrial and manufacturing businesses in the year ahead

🔗 Connect with Freddie Mitchell: / freddie-mitchell-economist

🔗 Connect with Dylan Kohlstadt: / dylankohlstadt

Check out Aluma Capital to elevate your investment strategically: https://aluma.co.za

🎙️ The DK Show is hosted by Dylan Kohlstadt, founder and CEO of Shift ONE Digital – Africa's #1 ranked SEO and AI visibility agency.

🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations with the business leaders, economists, and innovators shaping the future of B2B in South Africa and beyond.

#SouthAfricanEconomy #TheDKShow #DylanKohlstadt #B2BMarketing #ShiftONE #Economics #SouthAfrica #Manufacturing #IndustrialBusiness #InterestRates #AIinAfrica #BusinessGrowth #AlumaCapital #EconomicOutlook #FounderLife

How to Build a Positive Workplace | Andre du Toit on Optimism, Leadership & Business

Dylan Kohlstadt — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In this episode of The DK Show, Dylan Kohlstadt, CEO of Shift ONE, sits down with Andre du Toit, “The Big Positive Guy,” for a powerful conversation about optimism, leadership, workplace culture, and building a better future.

Andre shares why optimism isn’t about blindly believing that everything will be okay. It’s about believing that tomorrow can be better than today and having an action plan to make it happen.

They explore how business owners and leaders can help their teams stay motivated, manage negativity, avoid burnout, and create a workplace where people believe in the future.

In this episode, they discuss:
• How CEOs and business owners can create a more positive workplace
• How leaders can motivate employees and manage negativity
• The difference between optimism and blind positivity
• Why having a clear action plan is essential to optimism
• How social media and constant phone use can affect our mental space
• Finding purpose in business and leadership
• Why successful entrepreneurs continue working even after achieving financial success
• How optimism can influence leadership teams, suppliers, and employees
• Building a company that believes in its future
• Staying positive when difficult things keep happening
• Why walking, disconnecting, and getting away from your phone can make a difference

Whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, business owner, manager, or employee, this conversation offers practical insights into creating a more positive mindset and a stronger workplace culture.

Connect with Andre du Toit:
LinkedIn: / bigpositiveguy
Facebook: / andredt

Connect with Dylan / Shift ONE:
info@shiftone.co.za
https://shiftone.co.za

#Leadership #Business #Entrepreneurship #WorkplaceCulture #Optimism #PositiveLeadership #BusinessGrowth #CEO #Entrepreneur #ShiftONE #TheDKShow

Company Growth and Building Your Board | Kieron McRae

Dylan Kohlstadt — Wed, 08 May 2024 13:00:00 GMT

"A Sirdar is not someone who tells you what to do. They climb with you every step of the way," says Kieron McRae.

Beautifully put by the managing partner of the Sirdar Group, Kieron McRae. Kieron joined me to discuss corporate governance and its role in business growth and improving operational efficiency.

Watch the conversation to learn:

- The foundational principles of corporate governance.

- The parallels between leadership in business and guiding people on a mountain expedition.

- The fascinating origin of Sirdar and their approach to partnering with businesses.

- How to bridge generational gaps within family businesses.

- The intricacies of building a high-performing board.

- And much more.

Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking to scale your business, a family business owner navigating generational transitions, or an individual with a keen interest in corporate governance, this conversation is for you.

Give it a watch, and let me know your thoughts! Are you looking to scale your business? Do you have a strategic board in place?

#CorporateGovernance #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #CEOAdvice #DigitalMarketing #Podcast #MarketingStrategy

Remember to follow Kieron McRae on his social platforms:
LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/kieron-mcrae-board-governance-specialist

Why Content Marketing Builds Stronger Relationships | Cathy Lund

Dylan Kohlstadt — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 10:00:00 GMT

AskDK Show - Season 4 - In the third episode of season 4 I interview Cathy Lund,

Content Director at Woolworths.

I interview Cathy Lund the Content Director at Woolworths South Africa and discusses the latest content marketing trends and major changes over the past few years. We also discuss the different sales strategies in content marketing and answer burning questions like; Do you check your posts thoroughly before sending them out? Why content builds stronger relationships? How to create successful content and the major significant changes in content marketing.

You can reach Cathy on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-lund-53691757/

In season 4 we interview top marketing managers and thought leaders who can inspire others in the industry.

Let's Connect!

Live life with me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dylankohlstadt

Be inspired LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-kohlst%C3%A4dt-9109525/

Chat to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dylankohlstadt

Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dylankohlstadt/

Check my Website https://dylankohlstadt.com/