The Lunch Break

In today’s technology spotlight, we’re joined by Shaheen Price, co-founder and joint CEO of the GoodApp — an innovative platform that connects homeowners with trusted service providers like electricians, plumbers, painters, and more. This app not only makes life easier by ensuring verified, reliable help at your fingertips but also opens doors for South Africa’s unemployed,...

South Africa’s cultural heartbeat is powered by artists who keep our traditions alive and evolving. This year, the National Arts & Culture Awards shine a spotlight on those very creatives — and among them is Durban-born Carnatic musician  Kerolin Govender , whose dedication to the art form began before his teenage years. Trained both locally and in India, Kerolin’s nomin...

On  The Lunch Break Show with Varshan Sookhun on Lotus FM, we chat to Orion Herman , founder of #DignityforHer and LiquidGold Africa . His mission is to protect women’s dignity through safe, sustainable sanitation solutions while proving that waste can be turned into a goldmine for a greener future.

In Johannesburg, a major change is underway as City Power takes over electricity billing from the City of Johannesburg — a move many are calling a high-stakes power play. Could this be the turning point South Africa needs to restore trust, improve revenue collection, and unlock affordable electricity for all? Joining us to unpack what this means for households, businesses, and the future of...

This Sunday, the spotlight shines on homegrown talent as Port Shepstone’s own Eurupa Naidoo returns to our airwaves. Last year, she captivated us with her debut as an author — and now she’s back with her second book, launching right here in KZN at the International Book Fair in Durban. In her latest work,  Life Lyfing , Eurupa weaves deeply personal short stories drawn from...

Joining us is Dr Dale Creamer, Head of Interventional Radiology at Groote Schuur Hospital, senior lecturer at the University of Cape Town, and European Board Certified Interventional Radiologist. We’ll unpack how this evolving specialty is adding value to healthcare and making a meaningful impact in women’s health.

South African women retire with up to 40% less than men — a staggering gap with life-changing consequences. On this episode, we speak with Jessica Pillay, Financial Advisor at Momentum, about why financial planning for women is not just about managing money, but about securing independence, resilience, and a thriving future. From navigating career changes and family responsibilities to build...

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....

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 cons...

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 experienc...

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...

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 Artsca...

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 Innov...

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...

On the Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun on Lotus FM, we take a closer look at South Africa’s SME landscape with David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited. As the 37th annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards kicks off, David unpacks the renewed confidence in the SME sector, the impact of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, and the vital...

As temperatures drop and the roads get slick, winter driving in South Africa presents a unique set of challenges — and opportunities. On today's lifestyle feature, we’re joined by motoring expert Michael Pashut — CEO of ChangeCars, presenter of All Things Motoring, and founder of SA’s first Afrikaans digital car trading platform. Michael shares essential tips on how to...

On  The Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun , we continue our deep dive into the powerful storytelling emerging from Zimbabwe’s complex political past. Earlier this week, we explored the haunting theatrical journey of Breakfast with Mugabe with Craig Jackson. Today, we shift gears to the silver screen. Joining us is multi-award-winning actor and comedy sensation Rob Van Vuuren , who plays...

Join us on The Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun as we dive into a one-of-a-kind lifestyle experience with the visionary behind “Naan Sense” — Ivana Pillay. Blending the science of molecular gastronomy with Durban Indian flavours and the flair of live performance, Ivana is serving Gauteng a fine dining journey unlike anything the country has seen before. It’s food, it’...

In a play that critics are calling a  "modern-day Macbeth," Breakfast With Mugabe dives deep into the tormented psyche of one of Africa’s most controversial figures. Set against the backdrop of post-liberation Zimbabwe, the play explores President Robert Mugabe’s emotional unraveling—haunted by the spirit of a fallen comrade. Joining us to unpack this gripping theatrical exp...

Today on The Lunch Break , we shine the spotlight on one of Durban’s most dynamic theatrical exports — the brilliant Aldo Brincat . A true multi-disciplinary artist , Aldo’s journey has spanned across film, stage, and screen, with his talents as an actor and writer celebrated both locally and abroad. Currently captivating audiences at Johannesburg’s iconic Market Theatre ,...

Today, we’re thrilled to be joined by internationally acclaimed comedy magician and illusionist  Vicus Cruywagen , who’s currently bringing the wonder to Durban with a series of fun-filled family magic shows.  From dazzling stages abroad to spellbinding moments right here at home, Vicus shares his magical journey, behind-the-scenes stories, and what keeps audiences of all age...

We’re joined by none other than the Ginger Shot Girl — a Durban-based entrepreneur who’s riding the wellness wave with her spicy, immune-boosting elixirs. From its ancient medicinal roots to its booming popularity in the world of functional beverages, ginger is stealing the health spotlight — and helping local businesses thrive while doing it. We’ll unpack the healing...