What does it take to turn ideas into impact and inspire communities to take action? In this episode of the Hantu Podcast, we sit down with Ruben Hazelzet, The founder of SoapboxSA, social design innovator, and one of UNICEF’s Innovation30 Young Climate Innovators, to explore how creativity, connection, and playful action can spark profound change.

Ruben’s journey has taken him from Amsterdam’s bustling creative scene to the natural beauty of South Africa, where reconnecting with nature reshaped his work and deepened his commitment to making an impact. Through projects like Captain Fanplastic, The SDG Challenge, and The Climate Diet, he’s empowering individuals to see treasure in unexpected places, align their careers with purpose, and make small, intentional choices that collectively create ripples of change.

In this episode, we dive into:

How reconnecting with nature transformed Ruben’s approach to sustainability and design.

- The story behind Captain Fanplastic and how it’s teaching youth to turn waste into treasure.

- The SDG Challenge and how it inspires moral ambition and purposeful careers.

- The Climate Diet: Practical ways to make conscious food choices for the planet.

- The power of creativity and playfulness in driving social and environmental change.

If you’re looking for inspiration to align your life with purpose, create ripples of impact, and rethink what’s possible in your community, this episode is for you.

Tune in now and discover how small actions, guided by creativity and connection, can build a more conscious and regenerative world.

Get in touch with Ruben or follow his work below:

Website: https://soapboxsouthafrica.co.za/

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruben-hazelzet-84b2b737/

Captain Fanplastic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captain_fanplastic

The Climate Diet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theclimatediet/

SoapBox Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soapboxsouthafrica/

In this episode of the Hantu Pod, I had the opportunity to chat with Dion Chang, someone who isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. As a trend analyst and business strategist, Dion has spent years helping companies navigate disruption, uncover opportunities, and thrive in uncertain times. But his work goes deeper... he’s also an end-of-life doula, guiding people through one of life’s most profound transitions.

What does a trend analyst have in common with a death doula? A lot more than you might think.

In this conversation, we explore the parallels between personal and business transformation, and how letting go of old ideas is key to embracing new possibilities. Dion shares how businesses can adapt to a rapidly changing world, and why the mindset we bring to business should mirror the one we bring to life’s big transitions- embracing change with curiosity, courage, and an openness to growth.

Expect a deep dive into the future of business, the human side of change, and how Dion balances being a global trend expert with helping individuals and businesses navigate endings and beginnings. Whether you’re a business leader, an entrepreneur, or someone curious about personal transformation, this episode will leave you thinking differently about the way we approach change in all areas of life.

Here are the links to his book, his website, and and read more

In June, we set off on an ambitious journey, cycling from the southern tip of Africa’s west coast, with Morocco in our sights. Adventure 4 Education is not just a test of endurance; it’s a mission to bring the life-changing practices of yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness to children and communities throughout West Africa.

In this episode, we dive into the heart of our journey, sharing the story of how it all began, and the anticipation and excitement leading up to the cycle. From the physical strain of the road to the joy of integrating ancient cultural stories with mindfulness practices, we’re using this adventure to create a meaningful impact. Join us as we unravel the magic of cycling for a cause and discover how education can be transformed through movement, storytelling, and community engagement.

Here is the link to read more about this adventure and to donate to the cause:

Adventure 4 Education GoFund Me

Follow the journey here: https://www.instagram.com/adventure_4_education/

This Podcast series 'Adventure 4 Education' is sponsored by Fitch & Leedes.

Let us delve into a story filled with innovation, regeneration, and the impact of small, meaningful actions. Joining us today is Kristen, a pioneer in living consciously and with purpose.

As the brains behind Gooi AND a web development instructor at Le Wagon, she's much more than an educator – she's a forward-thinker, applying her skills to make a difference in our environment and society.

Gooi helps make organic waste recycling easy, simplifying composting, and turning a routine chore into an effortless act of environmental stewardship. This initiative is a movement to bring us back to nature's cycles, where waste nourishes the earth. Her vision is a harmonious blend of the old and new, reviving ancient wisdom through modern coordination.

In this episode we unravel a tale of how passion can lead to purposeful action, reminding us that every small step toward sustainability is significant. Together, we'll explore what it means to live consciously and how we can all play our part in a more connected world.

If you're in Cape Town and want to sign up, or if you'd like to know more about Gooi, here is the link to their website: https://www.gooi.me/

Email: [email protected]

Embark on a transformative journey with 'Hantu Pod.' Engage in enriching dialogues that blend ancient wisdom and modern insights, challenging norms and sparking curiosity. Each episode invites you to rethink the human experience, connect deeply with life's complexities, and discover the ties that unite us. 'Hantu Pod' - where thought-provoking conversations lead to personal and planetary enlightenment.