In this episode of Through the Fog, Pierre sits down with Guy Ellis, global entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of the Lekker Network. With over 60 board, advisory, and founder roles, Guy shares a wealth of insight into entrepreneurship, emotional intelligence, and the power of helping others. From his roots as a wannabe “Dr. Farmer” to his groundbreaking work at Harvard and across global markets, Guy explores how authentic connection can unlock transformative opportunities. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about patriotism, privilege, purpose, and how South Africans can—and are—changing the world.
Links:
Guy Ellis - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-ellis/
Guy's first book is out soon: The Negotiation Code
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and quick banter
01:00 - Meet Guy Ellis: Global entrepreneur & Harvard instructor
02:25 - The origin of a “Dr. Farmer” dream
04:50 - Helping others and early signs of a mission
06:00 - Defining “Expansion through Connection”
07:30 - Is the self-made man a myth?
09:30 - A pivotal moment: reshaping a business from scratch
13:50 - The origin story of the Lekker Network
17:30 - Building intentional, impactful networks
20:50 - The importance of helping without agenda
23:30 - Living abroad but loving South Africa
27:00 - What it means to be South African
30:00 - Fixing South Africa: Right person, right seat
34:00 - South African talent and the Springboks metaphor
36:00 - Challenges in government and business alignment
39:00 - How small business owners can make change
41:00 - What gives Guy hope for the country
44:00 - South Africans abroad: Not traitors, just dispersed impact
46:00 - The uniquely South African spirit of friendliness and resilience
49:00 - The cultural magic of meeting South Africans abroad
51:30 - Emotional connection and nostalgia for home
54:00 - The role of adversity in creating grit and talent
56:00 - Overcoming scarcity mindsets
58:00 - Celebrating informal connections and spontaneous chats
1:00:00 - Picking South Africa’s “one thing” to rally around
1:02:00 - The challenge of focus in national strategy
1:04:00 - Harnessing the power of South Africans globally
1:07:00 - Reclaiming civic agency: citizens should direct the government
1:10:00 - Breaking free from limiting narratives and perceived disloyalty
1:13:00 - Creating the bridge from now to a brighter future
1:16:00 - Humility vs. self-deprecation among South Africans
1:18:00 - Closing thoughts: freedom, connection, and what comes next
