Scaling Lula: Velani Mboweni on Systems, Team Building & Founder Evolution

Scaling Lula: Velani Mboweni on Systems, Team Building & Founder Evolution

What does it really take to scale a purpose-led startup in Africa? In this episode of the ScaleUp Podcast, we sit down with Velani Mboweni, founder and CEO of Lula, to unpack the raw truths of building a mobility platform from scratch. From navigating rejection and burnout to building the right systems and team, Velani shares what it takes to stay focused and keep moving, even while laying track under a moving train. 🔍 In this episode: – How Lula scaled by falling in love with the problem, not the solution – Why team rhythms and operational systems are transformational – When hiring the wrong person teaches the right lesson – The unglamorous truth about founder evolution – Why “loving your customer” isn’t enough Whether you’re scaling your first venture or feeling the pressure of growth, this episode will leave you grounded, challenged, and better equipped for the road ahead. 🎙️ Hosted by Nicholas Thiede and Ingrid Kluckow Meet Nicholas Thiede [https://www.scaleupcompany.co.za/scale-up-events/]

Culture vs. Chaos: How to Scale Without Losing What Matters

In this powerful episode of ScaleUp Podcast, Scaling Expert Nicholas Thiede sits down with award-winning entrepreneur and culture strategist Kim Whitaker to unpack why company culture is not a 'nice-to-have' — it's a scaling superpower. Discover why culture isn’t fluff, it’s the operating system behind high-performing teams. Learn how codifying your values can eliminate micromanagement, boost alignment, and create energy that fuels growth. 🔥 Topics covered in this episode: Why companies fail when they treat culture like a ‘side dish’ How to build cultural guardrails that drive autonomous decision-making Real-world examples of scaling culture in startups and growing teams Why "Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast" — and how to serve both Whether you're a founder, team leader, or part of a scaling company, this conversation will equip you with practical tools to turn culture into your most strategic asset. ScaleUp Company South Africa [https://www.scaleupcompany.co.za/] · Find more of Nic's knowledge! [https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/nobody-wants-managed-how-build-winning-team-nicholas-thiede-kbddf/?trackingId=mXol37I4SeWhAmJbQSWFIA%3D%3D]

Are You In for Trouble? Scaling Up Without Breaking Down

Scaling a Business While Facing the Founder’s Dilemma In this episode, we sit down with Ian Thomson, the co-founder of TooMuchWifi, to explore how he and his team scaled their business. We discuss the toughest lessons, biggest wins, and the mindset shifts that drive business success. Nicholas Thiede shares his insights on navigating the Founder’s Dilemma and the key processes entrepreneurs can implement to safeguard against the growing pains and pitfalls of scaling a business.