PODCAST · government
The Lunch Break
by Lotus FM
Lunch time show keeping you entertained
Episodes
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What your food cravings say about your health - 02 October 2026
Many people dismiss cravings as a lack of willpower, they may be linked to factors such as stress, poor sleep, dehydration, hormonal changes, and even the body's reward pathwaysJandri Barnard, a dietician discusses why food cravings are often biological and psychological signals rather than…
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Reclaiming the Classroom: Making EdTech Work for Teachers - 5 October 2026
South African schools have received digital tools for years, yet many remain unused. Kelly Fisher from Injini joins us to unpack the challenges of EdTech adoption, the digital divide, AI in classrooms, and what teachers truly need to make technology work. We also look ahead to EdTech Week and the...
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This Is Not My Forever: Changing the Narrative on Homelessness - 30 September 2026
Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) has launched This Is Not My Forever, a digital storytelling campaign amplifying the voices of people who have experienced homelessness. Joining us is Tara Gerardy-Bissolati, CCID Social Development Manager and a peer worker with lived experience…
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Every Skill Passed On Becomes Someone Else’s Opportunity - 29 September 2026
Heritage is more than culture, traditions and tangible symbols — it also lives in the skills, knowledge and experience we pass from one generation to the next. In this conversation, Sandi Richardson, Chief People Officer at RCS, explores the importance of mentorship, skills-sharing and upskilling...
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KZN Youth Take Their Business Ideas to the National Stage - 28 September 2026
Young entrepreneurs from RydalPark Secondary School and Phoenix Technical Secondary School are heading to the JA South Africa National Company of the Year Competition in Johannesburg. We explore their innovative business ideas, including an AI-powered career platform and a personalised safety...
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Heritage, Law & Purpose with Xolo Songca - 25 September 2026
On Heritage Day, award-winning author and legal scholar Xolo Songca reflects on his upbringing in Lusikisiki, his Mpondo heritage, academic journey in Constitutional Law, and his passion for strengthening South African governance. He also discusses his research, future ambitions and using social...
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Heritage Day: The Legacy of Kumari Ambigay - 24 September 2026
Lotus FM celebrates the remarkable legacy of Kumari Ambigay, a pioneer of Indian music, dance and culture in South Africa. She reflects on her family heritage, seven decades in the arts, growing up during apartheid, her experiences in India, and the importance of preserving Indian traditions for...
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Heritage & Wealth: The Financial Lessons We Inherit - 23 September 2026
Heritage is about more than culture, traditions and shared experiences—it also includes the financial habits and values passed down through generations. In this conversation, Tholakele Mathenja, Customer Care Manager at Atlas Finance, explores the money lessons young South Africans learn from…
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Heritage Day: What Do We Preserve, and What Should We Leave Behind? - 22 September 2026
Devan Moonsamy joins us for a thought-provoking conversation on Heritage Day, exploring what heritage means, what we should preserve, and what we may need to leave behind. The discussion looks at culture, diversity, Ubuntu, family values and the role we all play in shaping the heritage we pass on...
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The Hidden Costs of a Bad Hire: When Job Fit Goes Wrong - 21 September 2026
Unfair dismissal accounts for a significant share of referrals to the CCMA, raising important questions about recruitment, job fit and workplace management. In this conversation, Industrial Psychologist Ashleigh Nel, Head of Research and Development at Job Jack, explores how a poor job fit can...
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Indian Classical Dancer & Fashion Entrepreneur, Verushkar Pather - Fri, 18 Sept 2026
This Heritage Month, Varshan Sookhun chats to celebrated Indian classical dancer and fashion entrepreneur, Verushkar Pather who joins him for a discussion about arts, culture, tradition and heritage.
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Barry Kaganson, CEO of Auria Senior Living - Wed, 16 Sept 2026
Varshan Sookhun chats to Barry Kaganson, CEO of Auria Senior Living, who discusses the disconnect between what senior living in South Africa is perceived to be and what it has become, and the implications this has for residents, developers and investors.
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Sylvia Walker, Financial Planner - Tues, 15 Sept 2026
Varshan Sookhun chats to Sylvia Walker, a Financial Planner and Writer who will share some guidance and practical advice on nurturing a healthy relationship with money.
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Sharmila Ranchod on her book "My Chai Is Strong and So Am I" - Fri, 11 Sept 2026
"My Chai Is Strong and So Am I" by Sharmila Ranchod – is a deeply inspiring memoir that explores resilience, self-discovery and the courage to reclaim your voice. Varshan chats to Sharmila who has spent many years as an Educator, now a Speaker and Women’s Empowerment Advocate more about the book.
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We find out more about theatre production "Damsel in Distress" - Thurs, 10 Sept 2026
Award winning and highly acclaimed national theatre actors Daniel Anderson and Karina Lind Devar will be joining me to share details about their new production titled Damsel in Distress. This time Daniel is directing and Karina is the lead star in the show.
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Alvin Gulzar on his book "Poor Boy, Rich Man" - Wed, 9 Sept 2026
Varshan Sookhun chats to Alvin Gulzar, an IT Executive, Leader and Mentor, who documents his real-life story in his book titled “Poor Boy, Rich Man” and he joins me now to chat more about the book which tells us about his life experiences and how success has a much deeper meaning than financial...
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Open Air School Fundraiser - Tues, 8 Sept 2026
Open Air School KZN is hosting a special fundraising concert on 6 November, aimed at raising funds to revamp and equip the libraries at both its Primary and High Schools with updated media and learning materials. Joining Varshan Sookhun on The Lunch Break to us to tell us more about the school…
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Koketso Rathumbu, Advocacy and Communications Manager of the GBVF Response Fund - Mon, 7 Sept 2026
Varshan Sookhun chats about why workplace Gender-based Violence and Harassment policies aren't translating into employee trust and what can be done for companies to strengthen their prevention and response efforts with Koketso Rathumbu, Advocacy and Communications Manager of the GBVF Response Fund.
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Shall We Dance? Adarsh Maharaj & Juanita Pillay Bring Bollywood Flair to the Stage - 03 September 2026
South Africa’s longest-running stage production, Shall We Dance, returns to the Playhouse in Durban from 11–13 September 2026. We chat to dancers Adarsh Maharaj and Juanita Pillay about being part of this spectacular production, the intense rehearsal process, their dance styles, memorable moments...
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Literacy Matters: Building a Stronger Future Through Reading - 02 September 2026
Ahead of International Literacy Day, we explore why literacy goes far beyond simply being able to read and write. With 81% of South African Grade 4 learners reportedly unable to read for meaning, Barbara Strydom, Publishing Manager: Languages, Reading and Dictionaries at Oxford University Press...
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The Future of Loyalty: Making Rewards Work for South African Consumers - 01 September 2026
From shopping discounts and cashback to health, retail and lifestyle rewards, loyalty programmes have become part of everyday life for South African consumers. But with more cards, apps and programmes to keep track of, are consumers really getting the value they deserve? Byron Rode, CEO of (my)...
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Breaking Barriers: Samantha Skyring’s Journey in Entrepreneurship - 31 August 2026
What does it take to build a successful business against the odds? Meet Samantha Skyring, Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 and Founding CEO of Oryx Desert Salt. Samantha shares her inspiring journey from a bootstrapped start-up to building an internationally recognised and sustainable...
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Celebrating Women in Music: Basadi in Music Awards 2026 - 28 August 2026
Manaileng Maphike, Advisory Board Member of the Basadi in Music Awards, joins us to discuss the fifth edition of BIMA 2026. She highlights the theme “REWIND Your BIMA, Your Way,” the significance of celebrating women in the music and entertainment industry, and the Vanguard Awards, which…
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From Stage to Screen: Durban City Orchestra’s Final Concert - 27 August 2026
The Durban City Orchestra is set to present the third and final concert in its popular “From Stage to Screen” series, following two sold-out performances earlier this month. Music veteran and Chairman of the Durban City Orchestra, Wayne Richards, joins us to share more about the orchestra’s...
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Rehab KZN: Telling Powerful Stories of Women Through Dance - 26 August 2026
Rehab KZN, formerly known as the KZN Dance Festival for Women, uses the power of dance to tell poignant stories of human emotion, resilience and lived experiences. The festival brings together five KZN-based dance groups in a collaborative celebration of artistic talent while confronting…
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Chal Naach Let’s Dance: Celebrating Dance, Culture and Talent - 25 August 2026
Pavishen Paideya, Director of Rudra Dance Theatre, joins us to share more about Chal Naach Let’s Dance, an exciting celebration of dance, culture and spectacular talent taking place in Durban. He discusses the collaboration between participating dance academies, what audiences can expect from…
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Arts & Entertainment: Celebrating Ballroom Culture with AD Mizrahi - 24 August 2026
The House of Mizrahi is bringing Ballroom Culture to Durban with The Ascension Ball. AD Mizrahi, Overseer at The House of Mizrahi, joins us to discuss their journey in Ballroom Culture, the Ballroom 101 workshops, the importance of fashion and self-expression, and what audiences can expect from...
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Intense Work Is Rest: Finding Peace Through Purpose - 21 August 2026
Professor Vally Padayachee discusses his new book, Intense Work Is Rest: Cultivating Devotion and Equanimity, and challenges the idea that work must be stressful. He shares insights on overcoming burnout, finding peace through focused work, developing resilience, and turning the workplace into a...
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Technical Trades: Why South Africa Faces a Critical Skills Shortage - 20 August 2026
South Africa is facing a growing shortage of skilled professionals in technical trades and engineering, with the country falling behind the National Development Plan’s target of producing 30,000 qualified artisans annually by 2030. Dr Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBi, joins us to…
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MONEY MULE SCHEMES: THE RISKS OF MOVING STOLEN FUNDS - 19 August 2026
What may seem like an easy way to make extra cash could have serious financial, legal and reputational consequences. In this episode, we unpack the growing problem of money mule schemes in South Africa, where fraudsters recruit individuals to receive and transfer stolen funds through their bank...
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Sober Pregnancies: Raising Awareness About Alcohol Harm and Maternal Health - 18 August 2026
As part of Women’s Month, we speak to Mokebe Thulo, CEO of AWARE.org, about the organisation’s Sober Pregnancies campaign and its efforts to raise awareness among young South Africans about alcohol harm, maternal health and the prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). We unpack the...
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Dr Eubulus Timothy: Representing South Africa at BRICS WAVES BAZAAR 2026 - 17 August 2026
Acclaimed South African filmmaker Dr Eubulus Timothy, known for films including Deep End and The Cane Cutter, joins us following his return from India, where he represented South Africa at the BRICS WAVES BAZAAR 2026. He shares insights from the international platform, including the launch of the...
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Junior Stars: Celebrating South Africa’s Next Generation of Musical Talent - 14 August 2026
The Multicultural Academy of South Africa has wrapped up its 2026 Junior Stars contest, showcasing 16 young musical talents in the search for the country’s next rising stars. Join the Top 3 winners — Kemaya Nagiah, Swaasti Balakumar and Talash Ramlakhan — along with Academy Director and renowned...
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Ooma Maharajh on Empowering Women Through Education - 14 August 2026
Lotus FM’s Woman of Substance Awards (WOSA) is back, with nominations open across eight distinguished categories. This afternoon, we speak to WOSA Education judge Ooma Maharajh, Deputy Chief Education Specialist in the Ugu District, about her inspiring journey from educator to education leader…
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Melanie Kisten on Women of Substance -13 August 2026
Melanie Kisten joins Lotus FM to discuss her role as a judge for the Woman of Substance Awards, her journey in the arts, supporting emerging talent, and the importance of recognising women’s achievements. Nominations close on 16 August 2026. Visit www.lotusfm.co.za to nominate a deserving woman.
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India Day 2026: Celebrating Timeless Traditions and Shared Heritage - 13 August 2026
Mr Harish Kumar, Head of Chancery at the Consulate General of India in Johannesburg, joins us to discuss India Day 2026. This year’s celebration explores the theme “Timeless Traditions, Changing Times, Unchanged Roots”, highlighting India’s rich cultural heritage and the deep historical ties...
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Performing Under Pressure: Building Resilience for Sustainable High Performance - 11 August 2026
Pressure is an inevitable part of the modern workplace, but how we recover, regulate our emotions and manage stress can make all the difference. Global Human Performance Expert and Leadership & Resilience Strategist Richard Sutton joins us to unpack what the world’s highest performers do...
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Miss Emerald SA: Empowering Women Through Leadership and Purpose - 10 August 2026
Lisa Chella, artist, business development manager and co-founder of Miss Emerald SA, joins us during Women’s Month to discuss the pageant’s mission to empower women through leadership, excellence, community development and personal growth. She also shares insights into her own career…
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Chutney Fusion: Celebrating Indo-Caribbean Music & Culture - 07 August 2026
We chat to international Chutney and Baithak Gana stars Raymond Ramnarine, Rawytee Ramroop, Shivam Rajaram and Stephen Marcelle about their musical journeys, the global growth of Chutney Soca, their connection with South African audiences and the future of the genre. The artists also share what...
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Stop Sabotaging Your Savings: Smart Money Habits for a Stronger Financial Future - 06 August 2026
Many South Africans struggle to build savings—not because they don't know how, but because of everyday financial habits that quietly undermine their goals. From delaying saving until the next salary increase to prioritising spending over financial security, these common mistakes can have a…
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She Rises: Empowering Women Through Fitness, Community and Giving Back - 05 August 2026
In celebration of Women's Month, She Rises is bringing together fitness, networking and community impact in a unique three-day charity event in Johannesburg. Director of Cross Culture Promotions, Colette Roberts, shares the inspiration behind the initiative, what attendees can expect from the...
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From Sick Care to Healthcare: Rethinking South Africa's Health System - 04 August 2026
The KwaZulu-Natal Doctors Healthcare Coalition celebrates 30 years of advancing quality, accessible healthcare. Prof. Morgan Chetty discusses the shift from treating illness to preventing it, the role of value-based care, healthcare reform, AI in medicine, and how South Africa can build a…
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New Road Accident Fund Levy Proposal: What It Could Mean for South African Motorists - 03 August 2026
South African motorists could soon face higher vehicle ownership costs as government considers introducing a new mandatory levy linked to annual vehicle licence renewals and registrations to help fund the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Lifestyle speaks to Mike Pashut, Founder of Change Car, about the...
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Artscape Women's Humanity Festival 2026: Celebrating 70 Years of the Women's March Through the Arts - 31 July 2026
As South Africa commemorates 70 years since the historic 1956 Women's March, the 2026 Artscape Women's Humanity Festival returns with the inspiring theme, "A Place For All." CEO Marlene Le Roux joins us to discuss how this milestone festival is using theatre, music, film, and community dialogue…
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Keeping the Tradition Alive: Sri Niveshan Munsamy on Carnatic Music and the Hilton Arts Festival - 30 July 2026
Acclaimed Carnatic vocalist Sri Niveshan Munsamy joins us to discuss his lifelong journey in Indian classical music, the influence of his family's rich artistic heritage, and his passion for preserving and promoting Carnatic music for future generations. He shares how discipline, perseverance…
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Bhushan Dass Returns: A Journey Through Music, Passion and New Beginnings - 29 July 2026
Veteran South African Indian music artist Bhushan Dass joins us to reflect on his musical journey, the rise of intimate live performances, and the evolution of the local Indian music scene. He also shares insights into his versatile musical style, discusses his latest release, "Chaaron Bhai," and...
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Young Generation & Healthy Credit Habits: Building a Strong Financial Future - 28 July 2026
A healthy credit profile can open the door to future financial opportunities. Director of the National Debt Counsellors, Rene Moonsamy, discusses why good credit matters, the difference between good and bad debt, common credit mistakes young South Africans make, and practical tips for building a...
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Secure Living Redefined: Why Water, Power and Resilience Matter More Than Ever - 25 July 2026
For many South Africans, the definition of a "secure home" is changing. While protection from crime remains essential, homeowners are increasingly prioritizing reliable water and electricity supply, resilient infrastructure, and well-managed communities. With ageing municipal systems, ongoing...
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Ek Sau Tera: Celebrating 113 Years of Bollywood Magic - 24 July 2026
Step into the dazzling world of Bollywood as South African Desi presents Ek Sau Tera, a spectacular stage production celebrating 113 years of Bollywood's music, dance and cinematic magic. Show Director and Choreographer Suheena Ayrga joins us to share the inspiration behind the annual production,...
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Imraan Coovadia Discusses Enemy of the People Ahead of Durban Book Launch - 22 July 2026
Award-winning South African author Imraan Coovadia joins us to discuss his compelling new novel, Enemy of the People, ahead of its Durban launch at the Red Mango Arts Festival. Exploring themes of corruption, political power, family dynamics and moral courage, the novel offers a thought-provoking...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Lunch time show keeping you entertained
HOSTED BY
Lotus FM
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Lunch Break have?
The Lunch Break currently has 938 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Lunch Break about?
Lunch time show keeping you entertained
How often does The Lunch Break release new episodes?
The Lunch Break releases new episodes frequently with a large back catalog of 938 episodes. Check the episode list for recent publication dates.
Where can I listen to The Lunch Break?
You can listen to The Lunch Break on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Lunch Break?
The Lunch Break is created and hosted by Lotus FM.
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