Welcome to Episode 39 of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation, Jon Oliff and Luke Holden sit down with James Lees, an entrepreneur, educator, and co-founder of Advantage Learning Technology. He shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Johannesburg and Durban to building one of South Africa’s most innovative digital education businesses.
He speaks about key moments that shaped his life, from family upheavals and educational pivots to founding a business with a mission to unlock potential across Africa. James reflects on the importance of discipline, the power of community, and how a life-altering stroke shifted his perspective on purpose, health, and the value of time. This episode we dive into education reformed, the realities of entrepreneurship, personal setbacks, and powerful lessons learnt on resilience, vulnerability, and unlocking potential in others.
Whether you’re interested in education, entrepreneurship, or stories of overcoming adversity and finding purpose, this episode is packed with heartfelt stories, practical insights, and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in their own life and community. ⏱ Timestamped Overview
00:10 – Introduction to Briony, Retreat Experience and Lifeline Equation 01:51 – AI Tools and Lifeline Exercise 03:32 – Forum Experiences and Emotional Reflection 07:51 – Family Background and Early Life in Johannesburg 10:56 – Moving to Durban and Parental Divorce 12:39 – Reflections on Father-Son Relationship and Shame 16:26 – Generational Differences in Emotional Awareness 19:18 – Schooling Journey and Educational Opportunities 24:29 – Leadership Aspirations and Achievements 26:23 – Spirit Adventure Gap Year 29:13 – University Studies and Degree Choices 33:03 – Actuarial Science: Challenges and Reflections 41:23 – Early Career: Data Science and Massmart 48:05 – Transition to Education Business 54:12 – Scaling the Business and Digital Learning 59:03 – COVID-19 and Pivot to Online Education 01:02:48 – Mission to Unlock Educational Potential 01:09:05 – Personal Health: Olympic Weightlifting 01:11:53 – Stroke Experience and Recovery 01:26:49 – Reflections on Mortality and Family 01:36:27 – Purpose, Legacy, and Unlocking Potential 💬 Quote of the Episode
" It's unlocking potential in others. That's what I believe my purpose is.” – James Lees 🧠 Related Campaign Example Allan Gray's “Give It Time” Campaign: — James admires its powerful message about patience, persistence, and unlocking potential, and how the story of the trumpet player reflects personal and societal growth over decades. He highlights the ad’s undertones about South African history, personal purpose, and the importance of others in realising one’s potential. . Allan Gray's “Give It Time” Campaign: https://youtu.be/7wILoczeXOk?si=ArtlViXmPfotWd24
👣 Relevant Links LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/jamestrevorlees Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downtothelees/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/james.lees.3367
Advantage Learning Technology Website: https://www.advantagelearn.com/ Advantage Learning Technology LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/advantage-learn/ Advantage Learning Technology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/advantagelearnofficial Advantage Learning Technology Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/AdvantageLearn1 Advantage Learning Technology YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ6k3RQSDkk7gzDFroxG8sA 🌐
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