In the high-stakes world of business, ego can be a silent saboteur — turning collaboration into competition and eroding team performance. But what happens when inclusivity enters the equation?

Joining us today is Anton Gillis, President of EO Cape Town and CEO of Hamac Asset Management, who has worked closely with women entrepreneurs to uncover the transformative power of diverse leadership. He shares practical insights on how embracing inclusivity can dismantle ego-driven barriers and create sustainable success in modern entrepreneurship. Tune in to Lotus FM for this thought-provoking conversation.

Varshan Sookhun chats to Saroj Jamnadas, Convenor for the Eastern Bridal Fair in Durban about the traditional eastern bridal trends.

The South African manufacturing sector faces a major blow as a 30% tariff on exports to the US officially kicks in. With international trade being the lifeline for many local producers, what does this mean for the economy, employment, and the future of South Africa’s industrial base?

As we unpack the ripple effects of this development, we also ask: could this be the push needed to shift consumer behaviour and bolster support for local production?

Joining us to share insight and expertise is Dr. Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBi-electric: Low Voltage — a key player in the industry and a passionate advocate for sustainable manufacturing.

The story of the stage play, Actress takes place in New York and South Africa.  It’s a dramedy musical which follows the central character, an ‘Actress’ on her journey through stress and success, anger and auditions, triumph and tears.

This is brought to life in a mesmerizing portrayal by a multi-talented performer, Talia Kodesh, who, in real life has many years of experience in writing plays, performing musicals, and, ACTING!

Talia Kodesh joins Varshan Sookhun to chat more about "The Actress".

Actress and Singer Kerry Hiles will be chatting about her upcoming theatrical productions, including a tribute show to Amy Winehouse.

Varshan Sookhun chats to Maryke Musson, Executive Manager: Conservation Education and Communications at the South African Association for Marine Biological Research about an initiative by marine experts to keep people and sharks safe.

In a beautiful twist of fate, South Africa’s National Storytelling Day shares its date with the birthday of one of the country’s most celebrated voices, Dr. Gcina Mhlophe. Renowned for her captivating performances, literary contributions, and dedication to preserving African heritage, Dr. Mhlophe has inspired generations with her words.

This year, she brings her enchanting performance Tales to Tell, Wings to Fly to the Hilton Arts Festival from August 8–10. A celebration of culture, imagination, and the joy of storytelling, the show is perfect for young dreamers, families, and children who love tales of animals and adventure.

She joins us to share more about her journey, her love for storytelling, and what audiences can expect at the festival.

On today’s Lunch Break on Lotus FM, we shine the spotlight on women in theatre — a force driving gender equality, diverse storytelling, and the dismantling of stereotypes. Through dialogue, music, and dance, these voices inspire others to pursue their artistic dreams and challenge societal norms.

Joining us is Marlene Le Roux, CEO of the Artscape Theatre and curator of the Artscape Women’s Humanity Festival. This festival champions human rights, addresses gender-based violence, and fosters a more compassionate society. Marlene takes us behind the scenes of this powerful programme and the transformative role of women in the arts.

This Mandela Month, the DO MORE FOUNDATION is taking bold steps to protect children’s futures and fight the impact of climate change. Their latest initiative focuses on creating climate-resilient Early Childhood Development centres in underserved communities — ensuring young learners have safe, sustainable spaces to grow and thrive. Joining us is Dr Jessica Ronaasen, Advocacy and Innovation Lead at the DO MORE FOUNDATION, to share more about this inspiring project, how it aligns with Madiba’s legacy, and how we can all get involved in making a difference.

On this episode of The Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun on Lotus FM, we welcome celebrated South African author Elana Bregin, whose award-winning African-themed works — including The Red-haired Khumalo, The Boy From the Other Side, and The Kayaboeties — have captured the hearts of readers across the country.

Her writing spans genres, from children’s books to young adult fiction, adult novels, and narrative non-fiction. Now, she brings us her latest masterpiece, Station Life Repair, set in the vibrant and complex city of Durban. The novel explores the intricate intersections of lives, choices, and circumstances among its diverse characters.

Join us as Elana shares the inspiration, themes, and deep Durban connections behind her newest work.