Episode 5: Powering Modern Business with Smart Software — A Conversation with Instacom’s CTO

In this episode of The Instacom Podcast, we sit down with Wayne Oliver, Instacom’s Chief Technology Officer, to explore how software is revolutionizing the way businesses operate—from team management and fieldwork to secure access and automated reporting.

Wayne shares insights into Instacom’s development process, the challenges of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, and how the company builds reliable, innovative solutions that meet real-world business needs. We also dive into how remote work has reshaped the workplace and how technology continues to enable collaboration across borders.

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or someone curious about the future of work—this episode is packed with valuable perspectives.

In this episode, we unpack how artificial intelligence is revolutionising the Internet of Things and transforming the way South African businesses communicate and operate. Join our Product Director as we explore real-world examples of how Instacom integrates AI-driven solutions into its IoT ecosystem — from predictive analytics to automation — delivering smarter, more efficient operations across industries. Whether you are curious about the future of connected devices or how AI can reshape your business, this conversation will give you practical insights into what is possible today and what is coming next.

In industries like security, logistics, construction, and mining, failure is not an option—and that includes your hardware. In this episode, we sit down with Instacom’s Product Director, Francois du Toit, to explore how rugged, enterprise-grade devices are powering South Africa’s toughest work environments.

From ICASA-certified radios to IP68-rated devices built to withstand dust, water, heat, and impact, we unpack what makes Instacom hardware different—and why reliability is non-negotiable in mission-critical operations.

You will learn:
- Why rugged hardware is a business necessity, not a luxury
- The key hardware solutions offered by Instacom
- The certifications that ensure compliance and performance
- Real-world examples of our devices in action
- How Instacom continues to innovate for the future of work

If you are responsible for field teams, fleet operations, or mission-critical infrastructure, this is the episode that answers the question: is your hardware really up to the job?

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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Kobus Briel, CEO of Instacom, to explore his extraordinary journey from the farmlands to the forefront of South Africa’s tech innovation. Joined by Roland van der Walt, Instacom’s Chief Growth Officer, Kobus shares how his roots in agriculture shaped his values, leadership style, and work ethic—ultimately guiding him to lead one of the country’s most dynamic technology companies.

We unpack defining moments in Kobus’s transition from farming to tech, his first impressions of Instacom, and the bold vision he holds for the future of communication and security technology. Alongside personal insights, listeners will hear Kobus reflect on what it means to lead with purpose, adapt to change, and inspire innovation in an evolving industry.

Whether you are a tech enthusiast, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone navigating a career pivot, this episode is packed with lessons on resilience, leadership, and long-term vision.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Instacom Podcast — where we unpack the real stories, innovations, and people behind the technology transforming frontline industries across South Africa and beyond.

In this landmark debut, we sit down with two of Instacom’s most influential leaders: CEO Kobus Briel and Chief Growth Officer Roland van der Walt. Together, they share a candid, behind-the-scenes account of how Instacom started as a modest venture—with no office, no infrastructure, and a big vision—and grew into one of Africa’s leading providers of smart communication and workforce technologies.

What to Expect in This Episode:

🚀 The Origin Story
Kobus and Roland take us back to the earliest days of Instacom—working from a patio and a bedroom, driven by a shared entrepreneurial spirit. Hear how a simple phone call sparked a journey that would eventually redefine real-time communication across sectors like security, mining, and construction.

📡 From Push-to-Talk to IoT Solutions
What began as a push-to-talk service has evolved into a full-scale tech operation supporting thousands of users. The conversation traces Instacom’s product evolution, including smart panic systems, real-time tracking, and fully integrated communication tools for dispersed teams.

🏗️ Transforming Frontline Industries
We discuss the challenges and opportunities faced in serving high-demand, high-risk industries. Kobus and Roland share insights into how Instacom’s solutions are actively reshaping operational efficiency, safety protocols, and digital transformation strategies across South Africa.

🌍 Values that Scale
At the core of Instacom’s growth is a values-driven approach to leadership, innovation, and customer engagement. Learn how core principles like agility, integrity, and customer-centricity guided the team through early obstacles and continue to shape the company’s vision.

📈 Leadership Reflections
What does it take to lead a tech company from nothing to national recognition? Kobus opens up about leadership lessons, managing scale, and maintaining culture during periods of fast growth. Roland reflects on strategic growth, partnerships, and the importance of staying ahead in an ever-evolving tech landscape.

Who Should Listen:

✅ Business leaders and tech entrepreneurs
✅ Professionals in security, mining, agriculture and construction
✅ Project managers and operations directors
✅ Anyone interested in digital transformation, workforce tech, and the human stories behind industry innovation

Whether you’re building your own company, managing a team in the field, or curious about how communication tools are improving safety and productivity, this episode is packed with wisdom, real-life experience, and inspiration.

🎧 Listen now to learn how two visionaries turned an idea into a platform that empowers thousands of workers across South Africa every day.

🔗 Stay Connected
Follow us for future episodes exploring more stories of innovation, leadership, and impact. New episodes drop regularly, featuring thought leaders from across industries who are building the future of work.

Visit our website www.instacom.co.za

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