The Alternative Breakfast

GUEST: Dr. Sandra Lai, a senior scientist at Oxford University’s WildCRU research unit -

Their research on carnivore ecology in extreme environments provides valuable insights into the behaviour, movement, and ecological roles of species like the dire wolf. By examining trophic interactions and social dynamics in living carnivores, their work helps reconstruct the life-history traits and ecosystem functions of extinct species such as Canis dirus.

ANGLE:

• Why are these news a big deal
• Has the dire wolf been resurrected?

1. Prof Nic Rawlence - Director: Otago Palaeogenetics Laboratory at the Department of Zoology, University of Otago (New Zealand). Associate Professor Nic Rawlence is the Director of the Otago Palaeogenetics Laboratory at the University of Otago in New Zealand. He uses ancient DNA and palaeontology to reconstruct prehistoric ecosystems; how these ecosystems adapted to Earths dynamic geological, climatic and human history; and how this information can be used to inform evidence-based conservation management of endangered species and ecosystem restoration.

ANGLE:

• The history of dire wolves - what was their purpose in the ecosystem
• Will dire wolves and mammoths roam again?
• What was the dire wolf?

1.  Prof. Yolandi Coetzer - Associate Professor of Philosophy at the North West University.Prof. Yolandi M. Coetser is an Associate Professor at NWU and founding chair of the Southern African Society for Environmental Philosophy. Her research focuses on animal and environmental ethics, biodiversity conservation, and interdisciplinary approaches that align with the UN’s sustainability goals, blending philosophy with ecological and social justice.

Colossal Biosciences' project to revive the once-extinct dire wolf could also prevent existing but endangered animals from slipping into extinction themselves. The direwolves will live on protected land while they grow to their adult size. Let us listen back to an interview on how this project came together. Audio courtesy of Time Magazine.

GUEST: Chris Pappas - Mayor of Umgeni Local Municipality

Our next guest argues that if we are serious about service delivery, we need to equip and support local municipalities. He shares his insights on local governance: who holds the purse strings, explains how the levels of government work together , how municipality collects its revenue and accountability. He argues that South Africa can use local government as a centre for revenue collection. To share his insights and his recommendations, we are joined by

Global Recession and Depression

Guest: Zimasa Vabaza - Economist, content strategist and entrepreneur

In the opinion of some economic analysts, there's a growing concern about a potential global recession or even depression in 2025. This would be the first of its kind since 2007. What are the signs of a recession? What does a depression look like almost 100 years since the last event? One of the trigger points may be the current trade war and the slowing global demand for products. Closer to home, these global trading conditions are already showing signs of weakening emerging markets. South Africa has faced its own challenges with the US politically which has cast doubt on existing trade agreements

Is it time to take a bold stand about smartphones in schools?

Guest: Former police commissioner Riah Phiyega- she is now the CEO of 

Safer  SA Foundation

 Smartphones have become a near-permanent fixture in students’ lives, shaping how they learn, communicate, and navigate the world. But as concerns grow over declining academic performance, rising mental health challenges, and increasing digital distractions, the question arises: is it time to take a bold stand on smartphone use in schools? While technology has its benefits, the constant presence of smartphones in classrooms is disrupting focus, hindering social interaction, and exposing students to risks like cyberbullying. As educators and parents grapple with these challenges, a growing movement is calling for clear boundaries and policies that prioritize learning, wellbeing, and meaningful connection.

Guest: Prof Renata Schoeman, Head of Healthcare Leadership at Stellenbosch Business School

Despite one-third of South Africans experiencing a mental health condition and more than 27% of South Africans affected by depression, only 5% of the national healthcare budget is allocated to mental health services. 

Community: - The role and importance of BRAIN BREAKS – how to stretch, move and play your way to optimal productivity at school and work with Gemma Thompson - Head of Development at Good Work 

Civic Education: CheatGPT crisis – SA universities faced with a burgeoning degree of AI-written academic assignments with Charne Lavery, associate professor in English at the University of Pretoria

: Thought leaders ,storytellers and griots:  Stressed and overextended’: nearly ‘half of SA teachers’ eye exit in 10 years with Dr Helen Hofmeyr, lead author of The Teacher Preferences and Job Satisfaction report

Guest: Nico Smith, Petrol Head

GUEST Presenter: KatlegoDanke who is a SAFTA award winning Actress, director, producer, TV Host, MC, Motivational Speaker, Mother