Micka on Influence

In this episode of Micka on Influence, host Micka Alexander sits down with Evan Kotton, Digital Media Strategist at Mediology, to explore how influencer marketing continues to evolve in today’s media landscape. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, Evan shares how his career began in the early days of Facebook advertising and how he has witnessed social media grow from a new communication channel into one of the most powerful tools in brand storytelling. He unpacks the human element behind influencer marketing — the power of authenticity, real connections, and why “people do business withpeople.” The conversation dives deep into the strategic side of influencer campaigns, from selecting the right creators and building multi-tiered influencer mixes to ensuring paid media amplification turns great content into impactful results. Evan highlights the importance of awareness over vanity metrics and explains how data, creativity, and storytelling come together to drive real business outcomes. He also touches on common misconceptions — such as relying solely on influencer posts without supporting media — and stresses the need for a balanced, ecosystem-driven approach that integrates traditional and digital marketing. Finally, Evan and Micka explore the future of influencer marketing in an AI-driven world. They discuss how digital tools are transforming content creation, what creativity still means in the age of automation, and why authenticity remains the one thing technology can not replicate. Whether you’re a marketer, creator, or brand leader, this episode offers fresh insights into the evolving intersection of media, influence, and human connection.

In this episode of Micka on Influence, host Micka Alexander is joined by Marcelle Eckstein, Brand Manager at SC Johnson, to explore the evolving world of brand storytelling and influencer marketing. From discovering her passion for marketing at just nine years old to leading campaigns for some of South Africa’s most trusted household brands, Marcelle shares her journey, her philosophy on people-first marketing, and what drives her creative approach. Together, they unpack how influencer marketing has shifted from polished celebrity endorsements to real, relatable storytelling that connects with consumers on a deeper level. Marcelle reflects on the success of campaigns like My Skin My Way with Venus, revealing why authenticity and collaboration remain the most powerful tools in a marketer’s kit. Whether you’re a brand manager, creator, or simply curious about the future of marketing, this conversation offers valuable lessons on how to build trust, inspire emotion, and create campaigns that truly make an impact.

In this episode, Micka dives into the best advice from the first four guests of Micka on Influence. From practical do’s and don’ts to key takeaways, you’ll hear standout lessons on influence, leadership, and personal growth. Murray Legg kicks things off with his “Creator Triangle” — content, community, and commerce — showing creators how to grow impact and income through structure, consistency, and long-term planning. Thato Mokhou from MTN shares how digital storytelling and influencer partnerships shape one of Africa’s biggest brands. She highlights the balance between authenticity and sales, with AI and VR as tools to enhance, not replace, creativity. Bongani Chinkanda emphasizes cultural nuance and authentic stories. He warns against chasing vanity metrics or celebrity fame, reminding us that real influence comes from local connections and relatable content. Finally, Mbulelo Mashilo underscores authenticity, data-driven decisions, and the power of micro and nano influencers. Together, these episodes reveal a consistent truth: lasting influence is built on trust, storytelling, and long-term relationships.

In this episode, Micka sits down with Pieter Groenewald, CEO of theSalt, and Denelle Morais, Marketing Manager of Bestmed Medical Scheme, for a deep dive into their unique partnership that blends trust, strategy, and innovation. They unpack the evolution of influencer marketing, the shift toward customer-generated content, and the balancing act between compliance and creativity in the medical aid space. From measuring campaign success to leveraging AI and planning for the future, this conversation offers rich insights into how brands like Bestmed are moving from traditional to authentic influence – with theSalt as a strategic ally. Whether you are in marketing, health, or just curious about how influence is being redefined, this episode is packed with practical lessons and forward-thinking strategies

In this episode of Micka on Influence, we're joined by the insightful Mbulelo, a marketing strategist with a passion for all things creative and data-driven. We explore his journey into the world of influencer marketing, unpack what makes it unique, and talk through the challenges and game-changing moments he's faced along the way. From the rising power of creator-led brands to the role of AI in shaping the future, Mbulelo offers a sharp, honest look at the trends redefining how brands connect with audiences. Plus, his advice for up-and-coming influencers is not to be missed!

In this Episode on MIcka on Influence - I chat to Thato Mokhou, she is the Senior Social Media Strategist for MTN South Africa. We diving into how brands and executives can build influence online—without needing a million followers. How AI is revolutionizing influencer partnerships and content creation, making it more authentic and engaging. Learn how digital positioning, content leadership, and cross-platform storytelling create authentic connections that grow brand trust and authority.

Lindy-Lou Alexander, Brand and Marketing Head for Consumer and High Net Worth division, Standard Bank In this episode we’re in conversation with Lindy-Lou Alexander, Brand and Marketing Head for Consumer and High Net Worth division, Standard Bank. We chat about the power of enlisting experts when you have no idea; her love for the creativity of influencer marketing and its evolution into becoming a staple for Standard Bank because of its efficacy and the ability to measure in-depth results; and how influencer marketing is used over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday period to educate customers on responsible spending and cyber security. A big thanks to theSALT the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Listen to the episode here: https://band.link/coffeeconversations Please remember to subscribe to the podcast and share. This episode is brought to you by theSALT, the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Anne on Influence about is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts. Subscribe to Nfluential’s newsletter to stay updated here https://bit.ly/2DxoDC9 and follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NfluentialSA and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com /company/nfluentialsa.

In this episode we’re in conversation with Farhaanah van Heerden: Head of Social & Influencer at MediaCom. She’s been in digital marketing for the past nine years and sees it as her calling. She loves the fast-paced, ever-changing industry. We chat about what a good tech tool and specialised agency in influencer marketing should have to be beneficial to brands; the solid team behind the scenes that it takes to create and implement successful influencer marketing campaigns; the value of using specialist agencies with big opted-in and vetted influencer databases; why incorporating all tiers of influencers in campaigns works best; and the various ways brands can make use of influencers in addition to creating social media content. A big thanks to theSALT the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Listen to the episode here: https://band.link/coffeeconversations Please remember to subscribe to the podcast and share. This episode is brought to you by theSALT, the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Anne on Influence about is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts. Subscribe to Nfluential’s newsletter to stay updated here https://bit.ly/2DxoDC9 and follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NfluentialSA and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com /company/nfluentialsa.

In this episode we’re in conversation with MJ Khan. He is an award-winning strategist, academic, Bookmarks judge and category vice chair, NextGen Awards Judge, keynote speaker and proud father. He heads up Group Digital Communications at Sasol and is responsible for social media, online and digital campaigns across 22 countries. We chat about the power of communication in all its formats, the evolution of digital communications over the last decade and the complexity thereof these days, we disprove the myth of the short attention span; and discuss Sasol’s most recent campaign in detail. A big thanks to theSALT the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Listen to the episode here: https://band.link/coffeeconversations Please remember to subscribe to the podcast and share. This episode is brought to you by theSALT, the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Anne on Influence about is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts. Subscribe to Nfluential’s newsletter to stay updated here https://bit.ly/2DxoDC9 and follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NfluentialSA and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com /company/nfluentialsa.

In this episode we’re in conversation with Khensani Mkhombo: Brand Manager, Castle Milk Stout. An award-winning marketer, Khensani is a marketing professional driven to elevate the building of brands with a purpose, brands that challenge the status quo and make a real difference in the word. We chat about the importance of shared values when choosing influencers for campaigns; the fact that brands need to see its influencers as part of the marketing team; the benefits of always-on campaigns; how brands with a clear purpose are so much more successful; and the impact consistent marketing efforts have on brands’ bottom line. Listen to the episode here: https://band.link/coffeeconversations Please remember to subscribe to the podcast and share. This episode is brought to you by theSALT, the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Anne on Influence about is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts. Subscribe to Nfluential’s newsletter to stay updated here https://bit.ly/2DxoDC9 and follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NfluentialSA and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com /company/nfluentialsa.

This is part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Doug Mattheus and Gordon Muller aka The Doc and The Guru. So, if you haven’t watched to part 1 yet, I encourage you to do so. Today’s episode is filled with interesting insights. We look at the accessibility to smartphones with good cameras and internet connectivity as one of the reasons for the growth of influencer marketing, the lessons marketers can learn from the Kardashians, the shift to purpose-led and inclusivity in brand campaigns, and The Doc and The Guru’s predictions for the future of marketing. Listen to the episode here: https://band.link/coffeeconversations Please remember to subscribe to the podcast and share. This episode is brought to you by theSALT, the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Anne on Influence about is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts. Subscribe to Nfluential’s newsletter to stay updated here https://bit.ly/2DxoDC9 and follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NfluentialSA and LinkedIn Error! Hyperlink reference not valid..

In this episode we’re in conversation with Beatrix Fourie. At the time of recording, she was Operational Specialist at Telkom Business ZA. She describes herself as a result focused Digital Marketing ops specialist with an understanding of the digital ecosystem (owned, earned and paid). She has a proven ability to drive sales through quality lead generation, customer retention, increase brand awareness, improvement on brand engagement and increase positive sentiment on social media and other online platforms. We chat about using influencers not only to influence audiences, but also to gain insight and refine product offerings, how she uses nano influencers to drive education; her strategy behind deciding which influencers to use on campaigns; and how nano influencers garnered 3.9 million views on a campaign! Listen to the episode here: https://band.link/coffeeconversations Please remember to subscribe to the podcast and share. This episode is brought to you by theSALT, the first to market nano influencer channel in South Africa and part of SA’s #1 influencer marketing group, Nfinity. Anne on Influence about is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts. Subscribe to Nfluential’s newsletter to stay updated here https://bit.ly/2DxoDC9 and follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NfluentialSA and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com /company/nfluentialsa.