The Future Can’t Be Built Alone: We Lead with Louise van Rhyn & Thembalethu Seyisi What becomes possible when leadership is no longer centred on one exceptional individual, but shared by people who are trusted and invited to contribute? In this author-to-author conversation, We Lead co-authors Louise van Rhyn and Thembalethu Seyisi explore a distinctly South African approach to leadership built on trust, participation, accountability and collective courage. They discuss how leaders can create the conditions for people to think together, remain in relationship through disagreement and take shared responsibility for change. Drawing on stories of collective action across South African organisations and communities, the conversation offers practical insight into how we can unlock the capacity already present in people and build a future that none of us can create alone.

Acclaimed writer Zakes Mda joins The Penguin Insider to discuss his authorised biography, Chris Hani: A Life of Courage and Compassion. Drawing on years of research and interviews with Hani’s family, comrades and political contemporaries, Mda reveals the husband, father, intellectual and friend behind the revolutionary icon. The conversation traces Hani’s journey from rural Cofimvaba through the Wankie Campaign, exile and the underground struggle, while exploring the courage, contradictions and personal sacrifices that shaped his life.

At ten years old, Carla Venter decided she wanted to be rich. Today, after building an international career in finance and one of South Africa’s most followed money platforms, her understanding of wealth looks very different. In this practical and candid conversation, Carla unpacks the financial lessons many of us were never taught — from the hidden impact of investment fees and the risks of keeping long-term money in cash, to why property is not always the guaranteed wealth-builder we believe it to be. Drawing on her own journey and the insights in Money With Carla, she explains how ordinary South Africans can make more informed decisions, start building wealth and use money for what truly matters: greater freedom, time and choice.

What happens when a child who feels she does not quite belong is swept away to a mysterious island where stories, memories and identities are disappearing? In this episode, Siphokazi Jonas joins Nadine Petrick to explore her magical children’s adventure, They discuss the meaning carried by our names, the role of iintsomi in Xhosa storytelling traditions, and why finding your voice begins with recognising the value of your own story. Siphokazi also takes us inside the creation of Oli’s world, its unforgettable characters and the people, stories and traditions that inspired the book.

Join Isabella Niehaus as she guides us through the chapters of Bella’s Kitchen: A South African Cooking Odyssey. More than a cookbook, it’s a richly personal journey through the people, places and experiences that have shaped her life. Along the way, Bella reflects on cherished memories, unforgettable meals and the stories behind the recipes that have become part of her legacy.

What happens after life changes forever? Bridget McNulty and Dominique Olivier come together for a moving conversation about grief, resilience and finding meaning in everyday moments. Through personal stories and gentle wisdom, they remind us that even after profound loss, there is still light to be found. Content note: This episode discusses grief and loss, which some listeners may find emotional.

In this practical and thought-provoking conversation, Hendrik Marais unpacks the science, misconceptions and everyday realities behind the carnivore lifestyle. From cholesterol and fibre to fasting, sustainability and nutrition myths, he explores why this way of eating has transformed the lives of many—and how listeners can make informed decisions without getting lost in the noise. Whether you’re simply curious or considering a lifestyle change, this episode offers a balanced look at one of today’s most talked-about approaches to nutrition.

What if joy isn’t something we have to chase, but something we simply need to notice? In this uplifting conversation, Bridget McNulty and Jenny Morris celebrate the beauty of everyday life—from the comfort of a favourite meal and the magic of gathering around a table, to the fleeting moments that quietly brighten our days. Together, they explore the connection between food, memory, pleasure and presence, sharing stories, laughter and gentle reminders to slow down and savour what matters most. Warm, joyful and wonderfully life-affirming, this episode is an invitation to find delight in the beautifully ordinary.

Nadine Petrick sits down with Roslynne Toerien for a conversation that moves, quite literally, from the dance studio to the classroom to the page. They talk about grit as a daily practice, the discipline of rehearsal, the patience of teaching, and the steady steps that help build confident readers. Ros shares how rhythm shaped her rhyme, how her work in education informs her stories, and how African wildlife became the thread running through her books. From the teamwork in The Together Two, to the “clean-up crew” in The Scavenging Seven, the night-time world of The Nocturnal Nine, and the energy of The Feathered Five, each book explores animals and learning in different ways. This is a thoughtful conversation about purpose, play and helping children discover the wonder of reading.

In this powerful episode, author and speaker Craig Wilkinson discusses his latest book, Force for Good, and explores what it means to rediscover masculinity in today’s world. He reflects on how strength, humility, and compassion can coexist—and why true power lies in serving others. With honesty and hope, Craig shares insights on leadership, relationships, and how men can become forces for good in their families, workplaces, and communities.

In this special episode, poet and performer Siphokazi Jonas looks back on a remarkable year since the release of Weeping Becomes a River. From performing her words on stages across the country to transforming them into an immersive audiobook experience — now submitted for GRAMMY consideration — Siphokazi reflects on what this past year of recognition and reflection has meant. With grace and honesty, she shares the inspiration that carries her through each day, and offers a glimpse into what’s next.

Leon van Nierop en Marie Lotz, twee van Suid-Afrika se mees gevierde outeurs, gesels oor hul karakters, die uitdagings van kritiek, en die unieke prosesse wat elke boek tot lewe bring. Met humor, eerlikheid en jare se ervaring deel hulle insigte oor hoe stories vorm kry, hoe kritiek ’n skrywer slyp, en hoekom die skryfproses steeds ’n avontuur bly. Trek die stoel nader, maak vir jou ’n koppie tee en raak gemaklik terwyl jy luister na hierdie insiggewende geselskap.