Shows
Disrupted FactoryFuture of Mobility in South Africa: EVs, Policy & Reality CheckIn this roundtable discussion at the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, we unpack the future of mobility, the politics, the infrastructure challenges, and whether EV adoption makes sense for Africa right now. South Africa’s automotive component sector plays a vital role in keeping the country’s manufacturing economy moving. In this episode, we unpack the key takeaways from the NAACAM Show, where industry leaders, government officials and business partners came together to discuss the road ahead. The conversation explores how localisation, skills development and digital readiness can drive growth, and why reforms such as the APDP2 review are so i...
2025-09-251h 24
Disrupted FactoryAfrica’s Car Market Could Explode Overnight (If We Stop This…)Right now, Africa is a dumping ground for second-hand imports, killing local industry, jobs, and growth. If every African country shut that tap tomorrow, our market could jump from 1 million to 3 million new vehicles a year — instantly.In part 2 of my conversation with Justin Barnes, we break down why Africa’s auto industry is stuck, what needs to change, and how countries like India and China built policies that turned them into automotive giants. Spoiler: it’s not about population size — it’s about serious strategy!Join us as we explore the uncomfortable truths, the massive op...
2025-08-2129 min
Disrupted FactoryIs SA's Auto Industry on the Brink? Justin Barnes on Trade, Growth & Global Shifts in South AfricaIn this candid and insightful episode of The Disrupted Factory, Yanesh speaks to industrial policy expert Justin Barnes about South Africa’s automotive industry, currently facing severe challenges. They discuss the consequences of weakening infrastructure, global trade shifts, and Nissan’s exit from the local market. Justin highlights gaps between government policies and industrial realities, explores the viability of local OEM operations, and shares his views on why Africa might not yet be ready for large-scale electric vehicle production. Essential listening for understanding the future of manufacturing in South Africa.Justin Barnes is an industrial development specialist with...
2025-07-281h 12
Disrupted FactorySmart Manufacturing That Works: Tim Stuart on Fixing Digital Chaos in U.S. FactoriesA veteran of American manufacturing joins me in this episode of TheDisrupted Factory. Tim Stuart, founder of @VisualDecisions, takesus through how digital tools can supercharge Lean Six SigmaWithoutdrowning teams in admin work or checkbox culture.With decades of experience at Black & Decker, Cummins, andToyota, Tim shares straight-talking insights into what it really takes tomake smart manufacturing stick in the U.S. and beyond—fromempowering thinking employees to building digital strategies thatactually get adopted on the factory floor. Tim and I also exchangesome entertaining stories about the use of Gamification infactories and in our personal liv...
2025-06-191h 03
Disrupted FactoryUsing LEGO to Build Machines | Etienne explains how his "Legoify" process built his companyLego, we all know what is does and have all played with it before. These basic building blocks allow ANYONE to create ANYHTING they can imagine. Join me and Etienne Lacroix from @Vention as we discuss his “Legoify” approach to his global company. In our latest Disrupted Factory Podcast, Etienne discussesVention’s early struggles, focusing on the need to connect the software design, material sourcing and production process. We also discuss the importance of passion and grit in entrepreneurship that we have both experienced in our business journeys.De...
2025-05-0744 min
Disrupted FactoryTorquing With The Guru | Atlas Copco’s expert joins me to tool about & discuss boltsLearn how to tighten bolts so your wheels don't fall off! POWER tools are smarter than you think! In this episode of Disrupted Factory, we sit down with Jason Benford, the “Guru Of Tightening" from @Atlas Copco.Follow along as he shares his journey from automotive engineering to becoming a leading expert in bolt tightening. Discover how small changes in friction can DRAMATICALLY impact bolt performance, the importance of tightening with precision tools and how improper techniques can lead to failure. Ryan also reveals the hidden role bolts play in engineering, from eng...
2025-04-021h 35
Disrupted FactoryI'm Deeply Inspired! | We Welcome ANOTHER Tech Giant to Our Latest Disrupted Factory Podcast.The Future With Manikantan NS & Tech Mahindra: From Bottom-Up Innovation to Real-World TransformationI'm thrilled to bring you this special episode that was recorded during my recent visit to India. It was truly an honour to share our India studio with Manikantan NS of tech Mahindra. He is Senior Vice President & Global Head of Manufacturing Vertical. Manikantan is someone who has inspired me deeply. From humble beginnings in a middle-class Indian family to leading tech innovation at global companies, this conversation dives into his amazing journey.We explore lessons learned, from school failures t...
2025-03-0559 min
Disrupted FactoryExploring Cybersecurity, Retro Tech & the MQTT vs OPC Debate with Matthew Smith | Disrupted Factory PodcastOur discussion takes many interesting turns as Matthew shares his knowledge and insights on retro tech, the telecoms industry and the hot topic of cyber security. He feels quite strongly about this! Incorporating new tech into legacy hardware and machines is also his passion and I’ll be asking some controversial questions and getting his ‘European take’ on the always interesting MQTT vs OPC debate.Fieldcloud, founded by Matthew D. Smith, is a French company specialising in integrating field operations with cloud computing. They develop systems that connect on-site equipment—such as machines, instruments, and sensors—to cloud plat...
2025-02-121h 13
Disrupted FactoryRevving up SA Automotive Component Manufacturing | Insights into APDP, Exports and NEV PolicyIn this episode, we delve into the South African automotive component manufacturing sector with a special focus on policy, innovation, and the future of the industry. Our guest, Beth Dealtry, a policy expert from the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM), shares insights on the current state of automotive manufacturing, the importance of local content, and the potential for growth in exports.We discuss the challenges and opportunities within the sector, including the need for R&D incentives, the impact of the Automotive Production Development Programme (APDP), and the revolutionary potential of hydrogen fuel...
2024-10-1647 min
Disrupted FactoryInsights on Factory Digitalisation from I4.0 Bad Boy, Walker ReynoldsIn this episode, we dive deep into the automotive industry's digital transformation, focusing on the strategic missteps and successes of major players like Ford and Tesla. Our guest, I4.0 Bad Boy Walker Reynolds, highlights a pivotal moment when Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, admitted that Tesla had outpaced them in digital innovation. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of having a robust digital strategy, something Ford lacked, leading to critical decisions like outsourcing intellectual property to Bosch, which in turn owned valuable data that Ford could not utilise.We explore how Tesla's approach to data and digital infrastructure sets...
2024-09-041h 26
Disrupted FactoryThe Business Case for Virtual Reality: Insights from Immersive Tech Expert Jeremy DaltonIn this episode, we dive deep into the world of immersive technologies with Jeremy Dalton, a leading voice in the field. From the history of VR and AR to the latest research findings, we explore the potential and challenges of these technologies.Join us as we discuss Jeremy's journey from auditor to author of a book on virtual reality, and how companies like Ford are using VR to reduce production line injuries. Discover the impact of VR on training, collaboration, and operational efficiency in various industries.Learn about the rise of VR arcades...
2024-07-251h 24
Disrupted FactoryS04E05 How Digital is Redefining Manufacturing: Lessons from Tesla and AmazonIn this podcast episode, the focus is on Industry 4.0 and digital strategies for automating business decisions. The discussion delves into the benefits for machine builders, plant managers, and executives in utilising digital manufacturing systems. The journey of transitioning to a digital supply chain is explored, drawing examples from companies like Amazon and Tesla. Additionally, the episode touches on the prevalence of buzzwords and the scepticism towards consultants who may oversell without delivering tangible results. ABOUT OUR GUEST: Walker Reynolds is the president and solutions architect at 4.0 Solutions and the chairman and founder of...
2024-06-191h 40
Disrupted FactoryThe Power of AI in Manufacturing: Tier Ranking Smart Factory ToolsAI should be utilised as a problem-solving tool rather than for the mere sake of technology. This principle was underscored in this podcast episode focusing on the practical application of AI in manufacturing processes. Our guests from DataProphet emphasised the importance of first addressing real-world issues and then employing AI as a tool to effectively tackle those challenges.The journey of DataProphet, particularly their collaboration with Atlantis Foundries (see our Season 4 Episode 1), exemplified how AI was utilised to address the specific challenge of reducing scrap in the manufacturing process. Instead of implementing AI without purpose...
2024-04-171h 25
Disrupted FactoryHow AI is Changing Life As We Know ItIn a time when artificial intelligence (AI) technology evolves at breakneck speed, reshaping every facet of human life, understanding its implications isn't just an advantage – it's a necessity. In this episode, we're thrilled to present a critical discussion with tech visionary Ajit Gopalakrishnan that will redefine your perspective on AI, its burgeoning role in industry and education, and its profound impact on humanity.ABOUT OUR GUESTAjit Gopalakrishnan is human. In AI terms, he is a generative multimodal model with approximately 100 trillion parameters. His pre-training was done predominantly in Botswana, whe...
2024-03-131h 47
Disrupted FactoryNavigating the Digital Transformation of ManufacturingThis episode is dedicated to plant managers who stand at the forefront in navigating their manufacturing plants through the transformative waves of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). As industries worldwide pivot towards smarter, more connected, and highly efficient manufacturing practices, understanding the synergy between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) has never been more crucial. ABOUT OUR GUESTEmbarking on the journey of digital transformation in manufacturing is a formidable challenge, and Kudzai Manditereza is a seasoned guide through its intricacies. With nearly a decade of dedicated exploration in data i...
2024-02-142h 00
Disrupted FactoryHarnessing AI for Quality Control in Manufacturing with Atlantis Foundries' CEOIN THIS EPISODEWe had the pleasure of speaking with Pieter du Plessis, the CEO of Atlantis Foundries. Pieter shared his journey from aspiring to be the best foundry man to leading a major manufacturing company. We delved into how Atlantis Foundries has practically adopted AI to drastically reduce defects, achieving an impressive three months of zero scrap in Detroit.Pieter emphasised that AI is not just a buzzword but a tool for solving real problems. He recounted his early career experiences with data and how they shaped his approach to predictive quality in m...
2024-01-171h 22
Disrupted FactoryThe Journey, Growth and Development, and Future Direction of JendamarkIn this bonus episode, TECH | PEOPLE | TALK co-host Yanesh Naidoo plays guest while the director and CEO of Jendamark India, Himanshu Jadhav, hosts this panel discussion. It's a rare opportunity to see these panelists together on one couch in India, sharing their experiences and journeys with the company, as well as discussing the future of Jendamark globally.The panel includes:• Quinton Uren, the founder and managing director of Jendamark Automation• Yanesh Naidoo, the director for digitalisation and innovation strategy• Achim Blum, business development manager at Jendamark Germany• Himanshu Jadhav, director and CEO of Jendamar...
2023-11-2045 min
Disrupted FactoryThe Engineering Mindset: Creative Problem-Solving on Production LinesIn this episode, we delve into the intricacies of problem-solving, creativity in engineering, industrial automation design, and the impact of communication within an engineering team. Our guest, Malcolm Swart, Jendamark’s seasoned engineering expert, shares his insights and personal experiences, providing a fresh perspective on these topics.The discussion kicks off with an exploration of the dichotomy between an engineering mind and a scientific mind. Malcolm illustrates this with the compelling example of water flow science and how an engineer's creativity led to the invention of the toilet. This highlights the crucial role of...
2023-09-101h 02
Disrupted FactoryUnlocking the Potential of South Africa's Automotive IndustryIn this episode, TECH PEOPLE TALK hosts Yanesh Naidoo and Goodwill Mabena engaged in an enlightening discussion with Renai Moothilal, the Executive Director of the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM). The conversation delved into crucial facets of South Africa’s automotive landscape, shedding light on the significance of deeper localisation, the role of private-sector participation, the impact of the South African Automotive Masterplan, concerns over sanctions and trade agreements, as well as the Employment Equity Act and the energy crisis affecting the industry.Overall, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of Sou...
2023-08-161h 13
Disrupted FactoryThe Role of Tech in Rethinking Education in AfricaIn this bonus episode, TECH | PEOPLE | TALK co-host Yanesh Naidoo and Season 1 guest Ajit Gopalakrishnan (featured in episode S01E08) sat down with panellists Shirley Eadie, Arun Babu and Claudio Ranaudo at this year’s Africa Tech Week to discuss what the future of education should look like.Shirley Eadie is the founder of the Education Innovation Unit at the National Education Collaboration Trust (NECT) and a technical advisor to the Department of Basic Education on the integration of future skills in basic education.Arun Babu...
2023-07-211h 00
Disrupted FactoryAuthentic Leadership from the Factory FloorWhat does it take to turn revolutionary ideas into reality, establish an entrepreneurial company culture, and maintain balance in the ever-changing digital world? Join us for an engaging conversation with our esteemed guest, Graeme van Zyl, co-owner and executive manufacturing director of Jendamark Automation, as he shares his insights, experiences, and life lessons on leadership, manufacturing, and making a difference.In this episode, we discuss the importance of precision and due diligence. Graeme shares his thoughts on the need for flexibility, bridging generational gaps, the significance of one-on-one communication, and the impact of digital culture on our...
2023-06-131h 26
Disrupted FactoryA Leadership and Technical Masterclass with Quinton UrenIn this episode, we take a different approach to the conversation with our guest, by presenting it as a masterclass that touches on both technical and leadership elements. Who better to embody these strengths than Jendamark’s long-standing managing director and engineering guru, Quinton Uren.Quinton Uren is the founder and managing director of Jendamark Automation. With almost four decades of engineering and entrepreneurial experience, Quinton brings vast technical knowledge and a practical, hands-on approach to heading up this global company. He is passionate about Industry 4.0-driven automation solutions for the global automotive se...
2023-05-161h 13
Disrupted FactoryFesto SA MD talks Global Automation, Africa’s Potential, and the Shift to Software SolutionsIn this episode, we discuss what it takes to be part of a world-leading automation services supplier and the need for creativity and innovation in a rapidly changing digital world. We also examine why companies need a different, more agile approach to doing business in Africa, with opportunities for both entry-level automation and high-end Industry 4.0 tech. For businesses who are slow to adapt, the rate at which they will fall behind will be game-changing, Brett explains. Brett Wallace is the Managing Director and an Executive Committee member at Festo South Africa. He is...
2023-03-0156 min
Disrupted FactoryRockwell SA MD on Failing Fast in the Digital World, and People-Centric LeadershipCanninah Dladla started her working life as one of the few female artisans in the challenging field of electrical engineering but, hailing from a family driven by entrepreneurship, quickly set her sights on rising to the top by identifying the right mentors to support and guide her on her journey. Today, she is the Managing Director of Rockwell Automation South Africa and Country Sales Director for Sub-Saharan Africa. She is responsible for good governance, business development, customer relationship management and driving Rockwell’s growth in the electrical engineering and industrial automation sector.As som...
2023-02-1550 min
Disrupted FactoryEx VWSA MD: Risks of SA not transitioning to Manufacturing EVsWhile South Africa battles loadshedding and major power supply problems, the introduction of electric vehicles may seem a futile subject. But, says this episode’s guest, Robert Cisek, challenges such as these are where opportunities lie. At the time of recording, Robert was the outgoing Chairman and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group South Africa, leading a team of over 4 000 employees. He has since relocated to Wolfsburg, Germany, where he now heads up the small and compact product line.Robert’s wide-ranging international experience makes him perfectly placed to discuss related hot-button topics like the...
2023-01-1644 min
Disrupted FactoryAgile Leadership for Modern Businesses, Continuous Learning & Work-Life BalanceClaudio Ranaudo is the Senior Vice President for Sub-Saharan Africa at Siemens Digital Industries. He is deeply passionate about helping the industry grow, connect, and be supported by Siemens’ digital solutions. As a forward-thinking leader, he believes one of the biggest challenges over the next decade will be for people to make the transition from the analogue world to a digital ecosystem. Claudio says the way of thinking will change, business models will adapt, and leadership of values will become more important.In this episode, we had the honour of speaking with this th...
2022-12-0758 min
Disrupted FactoryShe Walked from the DRC to SA to Build Freedom: A Story of Hardship, Grit and ResilienceTRIGGER WARNING: This podcast contains content of a sensitive nature and is not suitable for children. Graphic descriptions of child abuse, sexual violence and drug abuse may be triggering to victims of similar traumas.Popina Khumanda is a young African woman who survived a nightmarish childhood in the war-torn Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Captured by rebel soldiers at age 5 and her village burned to the ground, Popina endured years of rape and torture before making her escape alongside her sister. As a 10-year-old, she and her sibling walked from the DRC...
2022-11-161h 19
Disrupted FactoryHead of C4IR on Acceleration and Adoption of Digital TechnologiesDr Ntsibane Ntlatlapa has devoted more than 20 years to the research of technology development and we uncovered why it’s important for you to be involved in 4IR. He is the head of C4IR, a South African government initiative, which has entered into an affiliation agreement with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to focus on accelerating the adoption of transformative technologies and effective regulation in the 4IR era. In this episode, we explore the challenges that developing countries may face in the acceleration and adoption of digital technologies, and the Head of C4...
2022-10-051h 04
Disrupted FactoryEasyEquities and How Their Fintech Company is Driving Economic GrowthCharles Savage is the CEO of Purple Group and the founder of EasyEquities, a platform aiming at democratising the stock exchange. His vision is an inspiration, and his legacy of achieving financial dignity for ordinary people and making them wealthy is genuinely revolutionary. He has a distinguished background in the financial services industry and his areas of expertise are business growth and strategic planning.In this episode, we explore the evolution of EasyEquities and how necessary it is for people to be involved in stock market trading. Charles reminisced...
2022-09-071h 02
Disrupted FactoryDaily Maverick's CEO on How Tech has Revolutionised JournalismStyli Charalambous is one of the leading names in digital journalism in South Africa. He is the CEO and publisher of Daily Maverick – a pre-eminent news outlet in the country. His roles include handling non-editorial functions, driving business innovation, data and technology adoption and membership. Despite having qualified as a Chartered Accountant, Styli is fully focused on the media business.In this episode, we discuss technology disruptions that have affected journalism and the direction media houses are having to take as they vie to remain relevant. We also dive into the use...
2022-08-0849 min
Disrupted FactorySiegfried Lokotsch talks Investing and TechSiegfried Lokotsch has a big heart and continues to make a difference in people’s lives and – unlike his financial investments – without expecting a return. He is the director and owner of Jendamark Automation. Sitting down with him reveals the values of a focused and driven, self-made individual who has a strong personality and an appetite for risk. It was this thinking that led him to success. In this episode, we talk to Siegfried about his early days, where he began his professional career, and how he is now the director and owner of a mu...
2022-06-061h 19
Disrupted FactoryIs AI a Friend or a Foe? | Ajit Gopalakrishnan & Juane SchutteAjit Gopalakrishnan and Juane Schutte have a long history of working in smart technology and a lot of knowledge with the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the applications of AI in industry. Both have been using AI technology to bring solutions to societal challenges in education and manufacturing respectively.In this episode, we spoke to Ajit and Juane about the possible future and direction of Artificial Intelligence over the next decade, given the rate of progress in AI over the past five years. We spoke about how mankind has become susceptible to...
2022-05-041h 15
Disrupted FactoryTechnology Will Unlock Human Potential In Developing Countries | Himanshu JadhavHimanshu Jadhav is the inspirational Jendamark India CEO, who enchants with his business acumen and incisive commentary. His experience as a strategic and fiscal operations leader is extraordinary. His communication approach is brilliantly hilarious, and he is a results-driven leader with a proven track record of success.In this episode – using technology to bring these gents together virtually in the same a room – Yanesh and Goodwill (sitting at Jendamark HQ in South Africa) have an “in-person” conversation with Himanshu in India.They discuss cultural differences, the challenges and opportunities for emerging economies and developing countries, unlockin...
2022-04-1258 min
Disrupted FactoryAfrica's First Tesla Arrives at Jendamark with Greg BlandfordGreg Blandford, has a long history of working in smart technology and has gained in-depth knowledge of alternative energy generation. Negotiation, planning, operations, management, sales, and team development are among his many skills. Our conversation with him was made unforgettable by his passion for marketing and new product development.In this episode, we discuss with Yanesh and Greg what the future and direction of technology will look like in the coming decade, considering how the last decade transpired, and how they are preparing for the next. We learn about the acclaimed Tesla Model...
2022-03-0332 min
Disrupted FactoryEverything E-mobility: Ecotourism and Lithium-Ion Batteries with Hiten ParmarHiten Parmar has a passion for contributing to advancements within the transport and energy sectors globally through deployment of technological interventions to solve major economic, competitiveness and societal challenges. Hiten stands as a leading executive, thought leader and industry expert, with over 15 years’ in his chosen profession. As Director of South Africa’s national electric mobility programme, he delivers on the mandate of enabling electric mobility across both the public and private sectors.He also serves as liaison for multiple sector-related forums within South Africa, as well as internationally on advancing the electric mobil...
2022-02-0333 min
Disrupted FactoryEV's, I4.0 vs 4IR, Data Governance, and Digital TwinsWe were honoured to be joined by both the Chairman of the Executive Board of Expleo Group, Mr Ralph Gillessen, as well as the Managing Director of Expleo Group South Africa, Mr Martin Sanne. Ralph is responsible for Silver Atena, a member of Expleo, ranked among the german Top 100 most innovative Mittelstand companies.Operating in over 30 countries, Expleo is a trusted partner for end-to-end, integrated engineering, quality services and management consulting for digital transformation. They help businesses harness unrelenting technological change to successfully deliver innovations that will help them gain a competitive advantage and improve the everyday l...
2022-01-1953 min
Disrupted FactoryThe Ever-Increasing Consumer Demands and the Emergence of New Economies with Steve GraySteve Gray is a passionate believer in the improvement of our communities. He is extremely well-informed and cares deeply about others. He is using technology to improve the lives of our underprivileged areas. He is a prominent voice in the field of innovation and technology. He is the founder of The MakerSpace Foundation and an expert in deciphering technology and the human ramifications of our rapidly changing world. He gives a fascinating and educational look into the world of technology.In this episode, we discuss:the importance of finding love and meaning...
2021-11-3055 min
Disrupted FactoryDr Justin Barnes talks Manufacturing Sector, Industry Policies and the SA Automotive MasterplanDr Justin Barnes is the inaugural Executive Director of the Toyota Wessels Institute for Manufacturing Studies (TWIMS) and Chairman of B&M Analysts. He was previously Managing Director of B&M Analysts (1997–2008) and Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2011–2014).He is passionate about a wide range of critical manufacturing subjects such as lean implementation, technology foresight analysis, executive management skills development, national industrial policy development, global value chain analysis, local cluster development and firm-level competitiveness challenges.In this episode, Dr Barnes explains the background of the South African industry poli...
2021-11-2453 min
Disrupted FactoryThe Journey of Yanesh Naidoo and Jendamark in Developing Their 4IR SolutionYanesh Naidoo is a visionary who has travelled the world in pursuit of the emerging tech space. He was invited to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, where he spoke at the 11th session of the Investment Enterprise Development Commission. He lectures an MBA class on the 4th Industrial Revolution and the opportunities it holds for Africa. He is also a digital strategy expert and co-owner of Jendamark Automation, a global tech leader specialising in 4IR-driven assembly solutions for the automotive manufacturing sector.In this episode, our host Goodwill Mabena sits...
2021-11-1548 min