Gareth's Guests - TopPodcast.com

Matt Thornton Jan 25, 2023

Over 60% of Americans cited violent crime as a core election issue in the 2022 midterms. Seeing it spread, and the failures of leaders in his own hometown of Portland, Oregon - Matt Thornton (Conor McGregor’s coach’s coach, and one of the first American jiu-jitsu black belts), decided to write a guidebook, which provides the average person with all the knowledge they need to survive a violent encounter. In short, it's designed to help good people become more dangerous to bad people. Gareth Cliff delves deeper into Matt's ideology in this interview.

Al J Venter Jan 18, 2023

South African foreign correspondent Al J Venter returned from the Central African Republic six weeks ago, having had personal experience of a Russian mercenary force that has virtually taken over an African state. The international community is now familiar with the activities of the Moscow-run Wagner Group, an exploitative military force that is currently active in several African countries - among them the CAR, Mali, Burkina Faso, parts of Libya and before that, Mozambique. In the process, mines and raw resources are being taken over by force and any opposition summarily dealt with, no questions asked. This Russian force also ingratiates itself with the government, gradually supplanting law and order with military force, and killing those who stand in its way, or are even suspected of opposing its will. How much longer is the world community going to allow these inhuman rights transgressions to continue? When are African nations themselves going to make a stand? Find out more in this compelling, exclusive interview.

Peter Boghossian Dec 21, 2022

Peter Boghossian is one of the most erudite social commentators and analysts of modern phenomena like wokeism, cancel culture, ideology and his favourite subject, philosophy. Having lectured thousands of students at some of America’s most prestigious universities, he has become a leading voice in criticising academia, and has written a number of books outlining the mistakes being made at institutions of higher learning. He’s also one of the most vocal counter-cultural thinkers, and has propagated much controversy with his studies of street epistemology.

Simon Sebag Montefiore Dec 14, 2022

Simon Sebag Montefiore is one of the great history authors of our time. In his most ambitious project yet, he tells the history of the world through the stories of families. In this discussion, Gareth Cliff and him explore the tapestry of human history - from the earliest days, to Russia and the Ukraine.

Iris Singer Dec 07, 2022

Iris Singer is an Austrian filmmaker and activist who has been telling the story of the Holocaust and survivors of the Holocaust - as well as organising events and tours to remind young people of the importance of history, and the most devastating genocides of the 20th century. In this discussion, she tells the story of her own anti-Semitic grandfather, the value of survivor stories, and the contribution young people can make to keeping history alive.

Bali Padda Nov 30, 2022

Bali Padda, former COO of LEGO, was one of the people who transformed that company from sinking ship to juggernaut. In his book, 'Deliver What You Promise', Bali shares business lessons from his own story to help the rest of us to become more efficient, to understand our businesses better, and to connect meaningfully with the market. In this conversation, he also shares the story of his own blue-collar origins, and the failures that taught him how to become a success.

Al J Venter Nov 23, 2022

Al J Venter has written books on and brought us the news from war zones all over the planet. He has witnessed things most of us cannot comprehend: closer, louder and more frightening than any second-hand account can accurately portray. In this discussion, Al talks about the most dangerous places he’s ever been, the volatile situations he has found himself in, and the human stories that happen behind the headlines.

Thomas Grant KC Nov 15, 2022

Thomas Grant KC is an English barrister, author and polemicist. His latest book on Sir Sydney Kentridge, called The Mandela Brief, is the incredible story of one of Apartheid South Africa’s most infamous trials. In this discussion, he and Gareth Cliff talk about Kentridge, the law, oligarchs, mock trials of the dead and lots more.

David Smith Nov 09, 2022

David Smith is the Washington correspondent of The Guardian. From 2010 to 2015, he was their Africa correspondent, and was based in Johannesburg. He has a completely different take on the midterm elections compared to Joel Pollak - who Gareth spoke to recently. They discuss the main issues on the ballot, where the Republicans and Democrats look strongest and weakest… and whether Biden stands a chance of staying in office if the Dems do poorly in today’s results.

Joel Pollak Nov 02, 2022

Joel Pollak is the Senior Editor-at-Large at Breitbart News, and the host of his own talk show. In this discussion - just more than a week before the US midterm elections - Gareth and Joel get into the politics of America in 2022… the issues that voters care about, the biggest surprise races, the balance of power between Democrats and Republicans, and the role of the media.

Professor Christopher Paul Szabo Oct 19, 2022

Gareth chats to the host of Beyond Madness - Professor Christopher Paul Szabo. They discuss what the podcast series is about, and talk how we deal with mental health… because there’s no health without mental health!

Geordin Hill-Lewis Oct 10, 2022

Geordin Hill-Lewis is the youngest mayor of Cape Town, and he’s currently in charge of the Mother City - with all its charm, beauty, and of course, problems. Geordin and Gareth tackle some of the controversial questions that always seem to come with the territory in Cape Town, and get into the ups and downs of the mayoral job. Whether you live in Cape Town, or just want to know why they’re the best managed city in Africa, this conversation is worth a listen. Maybe someone should share it with the other mayors.

Bill Nasson Aug 30, 2022

Bill Nasson is a Professor of History who, along with several other authors, has written a New History of South Africa. He and Gareth discuss how the book was put together, why history should be about great stories, and how politicised so much of it has become. Bill also has a few wonderful anecdotal stories, that will surprise even the biggest history nerds...

Larry Elder Aug 24, 2022

Larry Elder is a talk show host, political commentator and black conservative voice in America. In this conversation, he and Gareth talk about race in America, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, the conservative movement, and how awful California is.

Johann Hari Aug 10, 2022

Johann Hari has written an astonishing book about how we’re more distracted than ever, and how everyone (and he does mean EVERYONE) can’t focus. It’s partly obvious - screens, technology, non-stop reels of news, pictures, videos and self-absorbed nonsense… but it’s also much more dangerous. It’s actually making us dumber too. Join Gareth and Johann as they unpack his research, the stories in the book, and some incredible insights in this compelling conversation.

Dr Alan Mendoza Jul 13, 2022

Dr Alan Mendoza is a Founder and the Executive Director of the Henry Jackson Society - which is a British-based think tank with a global outlook. He directs analysis, research focus, strategy and development for the organisation. Since this discussion was recorded on the day Boris Johnson resigned as Prime Minister, Gareth launched straight into that. The conversation touched on Russia/Ukraine, China, the political left and right, free speech and briefly, South Africa.

Erika Bornman & Celimpilo Malinga Jun 27, 2022

Two brave women made it out of a cult and lived to tell the tale. Erika Bornman and Celimpilo Malinga were both taken to KwaSizabantu at a young age and raised in the mission. There they were subjected to some disturbing and abusive experiences, and somehow found a way to escape. Hear their incredible stories in this interview.

Jason Goliath Jun 03, 2022

Comedian Jason Goliath comes in guns blazing as he stands up for fat people against Gareth Cliff and Ben Karpinski. They also get into a discussion about how he survived lockdown, how a hacker defrauded his business of over R250k, the difference between ‘digital’ and ‘real life’ comedians, and being the new voice of Comedy Central Africa.

Professor David Block May 18, 2022

Professor David Block is an astronomer and highly sought-after inspirational speaker. He joins Gareth to have an eye-opening conversation about the black hole photo from the Milky Way, the recent lunar eclipse, and his astronomical achievements!

Pie-Pacifique Kabalira-Uwase May 09, 2022

Pie-Pacifique was 13 when the war in Rwanda started, and he lived through the terror of the ensuing genocide. His experience of it, and the story of how his life fell apart and was rebuilt from nothing is inspiring and extraordinary. He sat down with Gareth to explore just a few of the unbelievable and terrifying things he has been through - from refugee, to car guard, to university graduate, to businessman.

Riaad Moosa Apr 29, 2022

Warning: excessive laughter might occur while listening to this podcast! From entertaining fans online with his virtual comedy club, to gracing the big screen in the hit film, New Material, comedy heavyweight, Dr Riaad Moosa has kept us entertained for the past two years. And soon he’s returning to a real stage…

Jesse Clegg & Nicholas Petricca Apr 20, 2022

Reflecting back on his journey, Jesse will be making a welcome appearance at the Teatro at Montecasino this weekend, where he will be performing his own original music and songs. Flying in specially for this show is Nicholas Petricca from the critically acclaimed band, Walk The Moon, who Jesse has spent a lot of time writing, producing and recording with in Los Angeles. The duo have a candid conversation with Gareth about how they connected over Jesse's famous dad Johnny, the way in which music can be healing and more.

Thabang Skwambane Mar 15, 2022

Thabang Skwambane is both a philanthropist and a capitalist - and proves they’re not mutually exclusive categories. He has risen to the top of the advertising business and has some interesting, and controversial, views on things like transformation and political correctness. Thabang also tells us about travelling through six countries without money, and helping to raise money for the most vulnerable people in South Africa.

Joel Pollak Feb 22, 2022

Joel Pollak is the Editor at Large at Breitbart.com - America’s biggest and fastest-growing conservative news platform, and he has a wide range of experience in politics and media. In this comprehensive interview, Gareth and Joel unpack Trump, Biden, cancel-culture, Andrew Breitbart and his legacy, Trudeau’s tyrannical behaviour, and even South African politics.

Prof Gilbert Khadiagala Feb 01, 2022

Prof Gilbert Khadiagala is the Jan Smuts Professor of International Relations and Director of the Centre for the Study of the United States at the University of Witwatersrand. In this discussion, he and Gareth get into the details of the relationship between South Africa and the US, covering everything from Trump to AGOA to the African continent - and our challenges with changes in world power.

Judith Sephuma Jan 28, 2022

Judith Sephuma is a South African multi-award-winning artist, who has been dubbed the 'queen of Afro-Jazz'. She joins Gareth to have an in-depth conversation about her career, the move from jazz to gospel, the back stories to some of her famous songs, and more.

Fiona Dawson Jan 20, 2022

Fiona Dawson is a writer, producer, activist and film director. Her Emmy-nominated LGBTQ documentary, TransMilitary, has won numerous awards - and she has just written a book called 'Are Bisexuals Just Greedy?' She and Gareth unpack and attempt to cover all the complex (and cancellable) questions her book addresses.

Dan Moyane Jan 12, 2022

Broadcasting legend Dan Moyane has a candid conversation with Gareth about his new memoir, 'I Don’t Want to Die Unknown', which is a slice of South African history. He takes us down memory lane as he shares his favourite childhood memory, the incorrect spelling of his name, the moment he first saw his wife and much more.

Allen Ambor Nov 23, 2021

Allen Ambor is the colourful character who started a South African institution - Spur! The greatest family restaurant in the country’s history comes from the imagination and great work ethic of a man whose family narrowly escaped the Holocaust, and who developed a taste for life during his wild years of surfing, travelling and making a great steak. From his first restaurant in Newlands, to the corporate franchise juggernaut, Allen Ambor has much to look back on and share.

Jesse & Jaron Clegg Nov 12, 2021

Gareth has a candid conversation with Jesse and Jaron Clegg, as they talk about the release of their father Johnny's memoir, Scatterling of Africa. The brothers open up about the process of compiling the book, spending their childhoods touring the world, and the 'nature vs nurture' of talent and creativity.

Dr Jerry Mofokeng Nov 11, 2021

Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, the iconic and award-winning South African actor, grew up knowing his real father, but without knowing that he was actually his father. In this conversation, he explains his complex relationship with masculinity and fatherhood, the deep, meaningful contribution of his wife and lifelong partner, and the lessons he would like young South African men to learn from his story. As a wise elder, we could all benefit from his new memoir, I Am A Man.

Desmond Dube Oct 22, 2021

Desmond Dube is a South African singer, actor, mime artist and entertainer. He joins the team to have a catch-up on how lockdown has affected him, whether or not he is Lillian’s son, and this year's Janice Honeyman pantomime Cinderella, where he stars as the hilarious Ugly Sister, Fanny Flatulina.

Ben Miller Oct 15, 2021

You might know Ben Miller from recent shows like Bridgerton, Professor T, and Death in Paradise - but he was also part of the comedy duo, Armstrong and Miller... and he starred alongside Rowan Atkinson in the Johnny English franchise. Before Ben turned his attention to acting, he studied for a PhD in quantum physics at Cambridge University. Don't miss this highly entertaining interview as Gareth Cliff gets into Ben's head about science, how he memorises his lines and lots more!

Angelo Agrizzi Oct 11, 2021

Angelo Agrizzi is the man who spilt the beans on Bosasa at the State Capture commission. In this interview, he also spills the beans on Gavin Watson’s death, crooked and venal politicians (and how cheaply they can be bought) and how he was poisoned. With the release of his second book, and plenty of frightening evidence, Angelo isn’t backing down - he’s upping the ante. Hear about the tactics of State Capture, the people involved, and the amounts of money that changed hands.

Glynis Horning Sep 22, 2021

Glynis Horning experienced something no parent ever should. Her 25-year-old son Spencer committed suicide two years ago. Glynis shares her deeply moving and personal story with us, and approaches it from the point of view of being a mother, and also as an award-winning journalist, who has specialised in the field of mental health. This isn’t an easy interview to listen to, but it’s something we should all think about, and hope not to experience ourselves.

First Lady, Dr Tshepo Motsepe speaks up for the children in conversation with Gareth Cliff Sep 15, 2021

Dr Tshepo Motsepe, South Africa’s First Lady and Patron of the Early Care Foundation, shares her thoughts and passion about the importance of early care for children. ECF is an organisation dedicated to increasing access to early childhood development in disadvantaged areas through upskilling women and providing support for home based creches.
The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated this already fragile sector. Thousands of parents and early care practitioners have lost their jobs, which also means that thousands of children in vulnerable communities lose their access to safe, educational early care facilities and the associated daily nutrition the creche provides. Early Care Foundation has launched #NoOneLeftBehind campaign to help get at least 1000 children back into a stimulating learning environment and providing a roadmap for women back into employment.

Muzi Kuzwayo Sep 06, 2021

Muzi Kuzwayo has written an inspirational book on how we can make South Africa live up to its incredible potential. He and Gareth explore the ways we can get South Africa to deliver on the promise - the promise of 1994 and the bright future we could have.

Travis Brown Aug 30, 2021

Travis Brown is a filmmaker and philosopher who has just produced a documentary series about the religion of wokeism. In this discussion, he and Gareth talk about the parallels between established religion and the current, obsessive ideology of leftist wokeism, both in the US and the rest of the world.

Prof David Benatar Aug 24, 2021

Would it be better to have never been? If you’re not having an existential crisis yet, then this interview might just give you one. Professor David Benatar of UCT is one of the world’s greatest philosophers and proponents of antinatalism - the idea that it is wrong to bring sentient human life into being. He and Gareth wrestle with the idea of parenting, overpopulation, bio-ethics and the idea of purpose.

Kenny Xu Aug 10, 2021

Kenny Xu is a brave author - brave enough to publish a book on an issue none of the major parties in America care about. But they should, because it’s actually about an attack on merit. Kenny and Gareth discuss some of the parallels between Harvard’s discrimination against Asian Americans and affirmative action in South Africa, and what it means for finding the best people in any job, without politicians interfering or grandstanding. Kenny's book, 'An Inconvenient Minority', is all about active discrimination which prejudices some the hardest working people in the United States, with many lessons for the rest of us.

Chris Wyatt Aug 02, 2021

Living through 2020 and 2021, you could be forgiven for thinking the conspiracy theorists were right. Looking back on the big events in South Africa and the US (not to mention the rest of the globe), there’s enough fertile ground for every wild grain of paranoia to take root. Chris Wyatt - a retired US Army Colonel, and someone who has been paying a lot of attention to South Africa for many years - weighs in on the violence in KZN, the demise of the ANC, racial politics, and even a false flag operation on January 6th. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg...

Ian Goldin Jul 22, 2021

Ian Goldin is a professor and globalist at Oxford University, but he’s also a South African who served in the Development Bank during the Mandela years. He and Gareth Cliff discuss his book, RESCUE, and argue about big government, the ways the pandemic could change the world for better or worse, and whether anyone handled COVID well at all.

Jon Foster-Pedley Jul 21, 2021

What is hope during times of crisis? Is it passion? Perseverance and grit? Or faith? And how do we look beyond the current situation to inspire and acknowledge others? Should we look to the bravery and resilience of others, to hold each other strong? Gareth and Jon Foster-Pedley, Dean and Director of Henley Business School in Africa, have a candid conversation about hope being the new currency.

Greg Ellis Jul 19, 2021

Greg Ellis is a star of the stage, the screen and the digital world. He has sung for the Queen, starred in Pirates of the Caribbean and Titanic, and even voiced some of your favourite video game characters. The reason we wanted to speak to him was to hear his story - the story of a father caught in the expensive, unfair and cruel world of custody law. In this emotional discussion (wait until the end), Greg and Gareth discuss toxic masculinity, the war on competent masculinity, and the forces that are trying to destroy the family.

Kojo Baffoe Jun 23, 2021

Kojo Baffoe is a writer, speaker, entrepreneur and self-proclaimed retired poet. His life story has been a book waiting to happen. He and Gareth have a candid conversation about his book, ‘Listen to Your Footsteps’, which dives into reflections on losing his mother as a toddler, being raised by his father, forming an identity, living as an immigrant, his struggles with substance abuse, and a whole lot more.

Dr Hanan Bushkin May 10, 2021

The world is going through tremendous chaos and change, individuals and corporations are trying to adapt to this change with little or no guide or reference point. What is the public ‘bidding’ for? Emotional stability? Consistency? Answers? Hope? Leadership? A blueprint? An escape? Dr Hanan Bushkin - renowned psychologist and head of the Anxiety and Trauma Clinic - chats to Gareth about all this and more.

ProVerb May 07, 2021

To know him is to like him… ProVerb is one of the warmest and talented people you’ll ever meet as a TV host and producer, musician and entrepreneur. But most recently he's given readers an unprecedented look into his life in his memoir, “The Book of ProVerb.” Gareth speaks to him about it, as he provides an honest account of his life’s hustle in the ebbs and flows of the entertainment industry, which he hopes will invoke the awareness of self in others.

David Weiss (Flat Earth believer) Apr 30, 2021

David Weiss - a businessman, podcaster and Flat Earth believer - joins Gareth to have a candid conversation about his conspiracy theories, how belief is the enemy of knowing, and the most important secret of the elite. This conversation will certainly leave you thinking and maybe even convince you to see things differently.

Dr Rob Daniel (Specialist Ophthalmologist) Apr 21, 2021

Even though many of us would rather not mention 20/20 vision because it reminds us of last year, let’s find out though... how are your eyes doing? And what should you be concerned about when it comes to taking care of them? Dr Rob Daniel, Chief Specialist Ophthalmologist, chats to Gareth about a new eye surgery, the impact on our eyes from our cellphones and laptops, and how to better protect them.

Pepe Marais Apr 20, 2021

In the midst of these crazy times, it’s astonishing that Pepe Marais has been able to not only raise the bar at Joe Public United, but also inspire and assist people towards being the best version of themselves through his writing. Gareth talks to him about his new book, and finding your purpose.

John Hunt Apr 12, 2021

John Hunt’s new novel, ‘You Never Really Know’, has been described as one that is “filled with warm humour and serves up a double shot of pathos as it moves from playful satire to true tragedy, whilst examining the inner workings of power.” He chats to Gareth about how life has been for him over the past year, and shares his writing process with us.

Molly Bernstein & Sita Cacioppe (IsraAID) Apr 06, 2021

Molly Bernstein (Development and Communications Manager) and Sita Cacioppe (Head of Health and Medical Sector) from IsraAID, which is an international non-governmental humanitarian aid organisation based in Israel, to chat to the team about their massive task of rolling out a vaccine programme in Eswatini.

Qiniso Van Damme (The Bachelorette SA) Mar 05, 2021

She’s the woman of the moment - calling the shots as a number of men chase after her affection. She’s the star of South Africa’s very first 'The Bachelorette SA'... Qiniso Van Damme joins the #GCS team to talk about her dating experience and what she is looking for when it comes to love.

Rich Mulholland Mar 03, 2021

He’s probably been on more Zoom calls than anyone else under lockdown... Rich Mulholland joins the team to talk about adapting to the new normal of doing things, why “Zoom fatigue” is a myth, and a few apps that will improve your virtual experience.

Cindy Alter Feb 05, 2021

With a career spanning over 40 years, Cindy Alter joins the team to talk about her new single, 'Last One Standing', her album - having sold 12 million units to date... and she also shares some interesting stories about what she got up to back in the day.

Randall Abrahams Feb 03, 2021

Live from his car and still in his PJs is Idols judge and media personality, Randall Abrahams. He takes us on a musical journey like no other, letting us into his music room and sharing how he connects with music. Plus a random fun fact on why he thinks kids are overrated.

John Berks Jan 25, 2021

"Larry King was passionate about radio... he was the king of talk." - John Berks. The iconic Larry King has passed on. Gareth reminisces about his life and times with another legendary broadcaster, John Berks.

Dr Edith Eger (interviewed by Prof. David Block) Nov 13, 2020

In this special edition of Gareth’s Guests, Prof. David Block - astronomer and author, Emeritus Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand - gets to know the remarkable Dr Edith Eger. Dr Eger is a holocaust survivor and psychologist. At 93 years old, she has a stunning amount of experience in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. Following on some insight from her international bestselling book, 'The Choice - Embrace the Possible', she speaks about what she knows for sure about life, and in her way, leaves you looking up in this special one-on-one.

John Sanei Nov 13, 2020

With the advent of Covid-19, most of the world has had a sharp response to external factors, but what are the controllable factors which we have ignored for far too long? Though jobs have been lost en masse, is there any hope for the global citizenry as we leave the pandemic behind? What is the difference between complex and complicated modes of economic activity? Should we still have a desire to go back to what we once considered 'normal'? John's new book is called 'FutureNEXT' and is available now.

Laurel McCulloch Oct 23, 2020

The Covid-19 lockdown has affected the global economy, but the life of citizens has been different on each continent. Laurel McCulloch of 'Pumpkin Patch' fame - who is now a New Zealand citizen living in Australia - joins us to discuss how living in the first world isn't blissful during a global pandemic. How stringent is Australia's lockdown? Laurel also shares a touching story surrounding the tragic mosque shooting in Christchurch.

Lee Thompson Oct 09, 2020

Can you fall in love with someone in two months? Are you able to love more than one person at a time? What if your intentions are pure, but you enter a reality show where it's all about ratings? Is the magic of television lost if you understand the tricks of the trade? Lee Thompson from 'The Bachelor' talks about his mental health struggles after being thrust into stardom, and being part of a contrived idea of what love is. He gives us "the truth behind the rose".

Jeremy Nell (Jerm) Oct 06, 2020

What is the role of political commentary in society? Can humour address incompetence effectively? Should satire be restricted only to certain parts of society? Cartoonist Jeremy Nell (Jerm) has in the space of 12 months been de-platformed on Facebook, Vimeo and YouTube. Who decides which voices and opinions can be heard, and why is Jerm being marginalised? The satirist and content creator joins us to discuss his journey with cancel culture, and possible alternative platforms for content creators.

Aki Anastasiou Sep 15, 2020

When a 30-year habit ends, how does one adjust? As a man who loved radio so much that he failed a year in high school, Aki Anastasiou has pulled the curtain down on being the voice of traffic information in South Africa... so where to now? What other business interests does he have, how will he pivot as the future unfolds? What life lessons did other radio legends share with him over the years? One thing is for sure, Aki will never be forgotten in the hearts and minds of South Africans everywhere.

Jackson Katz Sep 04, 2020

How does gender-based violence fall on the shoulders of men in this day and age? This is what Gareth Cliff discusses with educator, filmmaker, and author Jackson Katz. He is also the Founder and President of MVP Strategies, and has a lot of insight to share to interrogate what a man truly is.

Gigi Aug 28, 2020

Has the art of erotica been lost as it's become commercialised? Some say the dismissal of sensuality as smut has led to relationships becoming stale and lifeless. What role does adult entertainment play in modern day society? Are dancers expressing feminine power, or are they victims of the commodification of their bodies? Is it all chaos and debauchery, or is decorum the name of the game as a dancer and strip club owner if you want to be the best? Money, power and sex... the holy trinity of the post-modern age.

#StopToStart: Lasting Scars of COVID-19 Lockdown Aug 27, 2020

The COVID-19 lockdown has created many social and economic problems, and those affected by sexual and gender-based violence are at even more risk than normal in these abnormal circumstances.
What can be done to deal with this pandemic of violence? How can the community play its part? What are the consequences of the shame and stigma associated with SGBV?
Join Gareth Cliff in conversation with Monica Adhiambo Onyango, Sophie Hobbs and Miranda Jordan-Friedmann.

#StopToStart: A New Generation of Men Aug 20, 2020

When we talk about sexual and gender-based violence, there's always a lot mentioned about women... as victims, what they can do to protect themselves, etc. But what about the men? What are they doing to help fight this social pandemic?
Gareth Cliff speaks to a few men who are doing extraordinary work in the SGBV battle - Jackson Katz, Mark Ramsing, Charley Pietersen, Tumelo Mokowe and Jacques Rousseau.
Brought to you by Absa.

Lynette Oxley (Girls on Fire organiser) Aug 19, 2020

The ownership of a lethal weapon is often characterised as 'men's territory'... well Lynette Oxley is having none of that. Firearm training of young women is starting around the age of 11 now. The aim isn't to create gung-ho gunslingers, the reality of the world means the safety of women is in their own hands. 'Girls on Fire' is allowing women to have a safety valve - should it ever come to that. Safety first, that's the motto.

Fulu Mugovhani (Seriously Single star) Aug 17, 2020

The pandemic has been brutal for the arts, but Netflix and the digital revolution have allowed actors to continue to thrive, even during the global lockdown. Fulu Mugovhani - star of ‘Seriously Single‘ - divulges the pleasures of working with comedy legend Tumi Morake, and who she uses as a muse for her characters. She's on screens in 183 countries now, but is her family proud of her? ‘Seriously Single’ is available on Netflix.

#StopToStart: Sexual & Gender-Based Violence in the Corporate Workplace Aug 13, 2020

A study conducted by global audit firm KPMG in 2014, found that sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) costs South Africa between R28.4bn and R42.4bn a year. It’s time for corporate South Africa to acknowledge that SGBV is not just a social risk... but a chronic political, market and financial risk that affects multiple industries, sectors and geographies. Join Gareth Cliff in conversation with Hermien Botes, Head of Sustainability Engagement for Anglo American; Andrew Davies, MD of ICAS, providing health and wellness programmes and counselling services to corporate South Africa; and Nadine Mather from law firm Bowmans, who will look at constructive steps that employers can take to address SGBV in the workplace. Brought to you by Absa.

Marelize & Benjamin van den Berg (Crime Scene Cleanup) Aug 12, 2020

Death by its very nature is always a very messy topic, but somebody has to deal with the practical side... which is the cleaning up, after a traumatic event becomes a crime scene. From bereaved families to gross filth, Marelize and Benjamin van den Berg of Crime Scene Cleanup take care of the most horrific scenes, in order to make them habitable for human beings in future. Not all heroes wear capes, some wear hazmat suits.

#StopToStart: What is the Psyche behind Sexual & Gender-Based Violence? Aug 06, 2020

With domestic violence escalating during COVID-19 lockdowns, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) against girls and women a “second pandemic” raging in our country. Our nation has one of the world's highest rates of rape and femicide, and recently, several brutal killings have caused horror and public outcry. Join Gareth Cliff in conversation with Dr Roze Phillips (Head of People and Culture at Absa), feminist social worker Keitumetse Fatimata Moutloatse, and Busi Mkhumbuzi-Pooe (activist and entrepreneur), whose friend Tshegofatso Pule was brutally murdered in June.

Reyno de Beer Aug 04, 2020

Is the extended, voluntary hard lockdown bringing South Africa to its knees financially? Is there an irrational side to hard lockdowns, even with a global pandemic being declared by governments globally? What are the metrics for success in order to end the lockdown completely? Reyno de Beer of the Liberty Fighters Network joins us to speak about the constitutionality of lockdown, and why the government must be challenged before it's too late for South Africa's citizens and their civil liberties.

Andile Ramaphosa & Brad Fisher Jul 30, 2020

Two entrepreneurs - Andile Ramaphosa and Brad Fisher - are doing their part in the fight against Covid-19, by providing ventilation technology to taxis in Gauteng. This is a major development, but has been marred by controversy, given that Andile is the son of President Cyril Ramaphosa. With so many allegations regarding the funding of the project circulating, the co-founders of SDI Force speak to Gareth Cliff about the inaccuracies in the media's reporting on this.

Mark Sham Jul 29, 2020

Your civil liberties are not a given, they are constantly to be fought for. Mark Sham of #SACitizensUnite challenges South Africans to not be silent in the fight for a better country. How can you get actively involved, how can you protest together, and will technology be the saviour of society against poor governance? It's okay to want a better life, but what are you willing to do to have that life?

Dr Srini Pillay Jul 28, 2020

How much of what, and how you think is holding you back right now? Would you care to know? Harvard psychiatrist and brain scientist, Dr Srini Pillay, has a career that spans three decades and he's dubbed his recent learnings, 'The Science of Possibility: Leveraging your Brain for Future Success'. He gives Gareth a few tips and tricks on how shifting how you use your brain, could shift the way you do things for the better.

Sam Cowen Jul 17, 2020

Across the country, we are currently experiencing many schools dealing with students, both past and present, who have had enough. For years now, some high-profile schools have been hiding a wide-range of abuse behind “heritage”, “reputation” or “legacy”. Using the story of Collan Rex (the former water polo coach at Parktown Boys High School, found guilty of 144 charges of sexual assault and 14 of assault, who was sentenced to 23 years in prison) as a background, Sam Cowen chats about uncovering what has been dubbed “institutional abuse” in her new book, Brutal School Ties - The Parktown Boys’ Tragedy.

Hlubi Mboya Arnold Jul 15, 2020

If your love language is to touch and hug, how does one deal with social distancing? What are the rules for making movies during lockdown? How long can creatives make it in South Africa without working? South Africa's marginalised populous is largely looked after by grandmothers and single moms, and Hlubi has put together a terrific initiative to help these 'imbokodos' in trying to feed their families. For more info go to relate.org.za.

Njabulo Madlala: London-based South African baritone Jul 14, 2020

The rise of the South African black opera singer may be a surprise to some, but this maestro believes that the nature of South African social culture is to sing in choirs, so where better to find and breed talent? The lack of patronage for South African artists has driven Njabulo to help South African artists by starting the Voices of South Africa International Opera Singing Competition. Yes, there's prize money to be won, but there's a far bigger prize for those who are scouted, and it's truly life-changing. Bravo Maestro!

Bryan Habana Jul 10, 2020

Bryan Habana remains one of the nation’s shining stars in sport. He caught the spotlight as the World Cup-winning Springbok legend and try scoring machine known for his finishing ability, an eye for intercepting passes, and his electrifying pace. Gareth catches up with him to find out how life today for ‘Little Madiba’ (as some of his teammates used to call him) is different from his days on the field. He’s also a devoted family man, working fiercely on the Bryan Habana Foundation and making waves through his businesses.

Shaun Fuchs Jul 06, 2020

When most people think about some of their earliest influences, a teacher is often on the list. Educator, leader and recent author of ’Fush - A Story of Pride, Respect and Leadership’, Shaun Fuchs chats to Gareth and the team. In the book, he writes about his life as a school rugby star, a soldier, a provincial powerlifter, a renowned waterpolo coach, a lifelong entrepreneur, a dynamic teacher, a beloved headmaster... and a gay man who came of age at a time when South African society was a lot more closed-minded than it is today.

Dale Hayes Jun 10, 2020

Three-time PGA Championship winner Dale Hayes is not just an award-winning golfer, but an all round great guy too. He is on a quest to get more people into what he calls "the greatest game in the world." He's the Swiss, Spanish, Italian, Colombian, French and S.A. Open winner and World Cup Winner in 1974 who's led a remarkable life, that he chats to Gareth Cliff about here.

Michael Jackson Jun 02, 2020

When it comes to public speakers, Michael Jackson is one of the best in the business. With decades of professional experience and an ability to connect with every audience member, he truly has become a world-renowned presenter. Gareth picks his brain to find out his perspective as he looks at the state of the conference circuit and beyond.

Edith Venter May 29, 2020

How has the events and hospitality industry been affected by the coronavirus outbreak and lockdown? To find out, Gareth speaks to a doyen in this field to get the answer. In 1999, she traded in her social butterfly image and her obligations as an executive wife, to take the business world by storm. And what a storm she’s made!  Edith Venter has been at the helm of Edith Venter Promotions for more than 20 years, serving the hospitality industry.

“So What Now?” - Marketing & Communications May 26, 2020

The Coronavirus pandemic has swept across the planet and left many wondering “what’s next?”. What are the marketing trends likely to be? How will this change the way in which brands communicate? And how will this pandemic impact on our collective psychology? Gareth Cliff chats to advertising icon Reg Lascaris and ‘Brain & Brand’ guru Timothy Maurice. If you would like us to host a webinar for your company or industry - either to a public audience or for internal communications - please email us: contact@cliffcentral.com.

Daniel Silke May 21, 2020

What are the results we should be bracing for in South Africa as the political decisions impact our economy? Daniel Silke is someone who could provide some answers around this. As he’s written in his recent column: “Re-opening South Africa needs to express much more than a colour-coded set of amended restrictions. It needs to be coupled to hope for a new future. Not one based on dependency and decay, but one based on innovation across the board.” Gareth chats to Silke, a keynote speaker, author and futurist specialising in South Africa, Africa and global trends. He’s also the Director: Political Futures Consultancy.

Professor Brian Kantor May 20, 2020

When someone as accomplished as Professor Brian Kantor speaks on the impact of the Covid-19 lockdown, you better make sure you listen. He is an economist and is the former Chief Investment Strategist of Investec Wealth & Investment SA. He is Professor Emeritus at the University of Cape Town, where he was the Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Head of the School of Economics. Previously, he's also been a non-executive chairman of Acucap Properties and the founding chairman of the V&A Waterfront. Prof. Kantor holds a B.Com and a B.A. (Hons), both from UCT, and doesn't hold back to share his informed opinion on the state of South Africa's lockdown.

#LivingInLockdown: Sean Donovan May 19, 2020

How is the coronavirus pandemic affecting the advertising and marketing worlds? That's what Gareth discusses with Sean Donovan. As the President in Asia for TBWA - known for disruptive ideas that locate and involve brands in culture, giving them a larger share of the future - Sean definitely knows more than a thing or two about this.

JJ Cornish May 19, 2020

As Covid-19 has engulfed the world, an interesting observation to make has been the different approaches taken to thwart the threat of the pandemic. With a documented global history of male bias when selecting leaders, should we be looking to re-address the role of women in leadership? There's evidence to suggest female Presidents and Prime Ministers have dealt with large scale challenges far better than their male counterparts in the last half century. From Thatcher to Merkel, from Ardern to Ing-Wen... this may be the time for feminine leadership to be given its big break.

Michael Charton May 14, 2020

Africa has always had a rich oral tradition of storytelling, that through the centuries has made it possible for people or cultures to pass knowledge, history, and experiences from one generation to the next. This largely rural tradition is a dying art form that has never been more necessary, particularly at such a critical time in South Africa’s history. Even with a financing past, Michael Charton understood this and created Inherit South Africa - to condense epic narratives of South Africa into bite-sized stories. He shares more about his passion with Gareth, and retells some of his favourite figures from the past.

Mbali Ntuli May 13, 2020

Mbali Ntuli’s rise in the political world has been one that has constantly drawn attention. She kept many people talking in February 2020 when she announced her candidacy for Democratic Alliance leader, as well as when she rolled out her plan to save the party. How does she plan to do that? She explains this to Gareth while under lockdown in this phone call conversation.

Reg Lascaris May 12, 2020

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic is impacting every part of our lives... from the places we can go, to the way we spend our time, to the priorities we have and the way we spend our money. So, how will this change how brands communicate with us? To give his take on how the marketing world will change, legendary ad man Reg Lascaris speaks to Gareth. As the Co-Founder of TBWA Hunt Lascaris and best-selling author, Reg has many pearls of wisdom to share.

Stoffel Van Wyk May 11, 2020

The Covid-19 lockdown is taking its toll on the South African hair industry. Too many livelihoods are being detrimentally impacted by the reality, pushing Stoffel Van Wyk to speak out against it. Stoffel, who is a master hairstylist and has worked in the industry for 27 years, speaks to Gareth about taking legal action against the government in order to get his beloved field fully working and open again.

John Hunt May 07, 2020

How has the advertising industry been impacted by Covid-19 and the lockdown? Will these times that we are in make a dent in the industry that was valued at R30.4 billion in South Africa in 2019? John Hunt - advertising legend and one of the greatest thought-leaders in this space - speaks to Gareth about this.

Tim Hutchinson May 06, 2020

As the founder, shareholder and CEO of alcohol wholesaler and importer DGB, Tim Hutchinson has seen many peaks and troughs in his 35 years of business. He admits though, that he has never experienced quite a drastic move like the government-instituted lockdown that South Africa is currently under. Gareth finds out what the lockdown means for Tim's company and operations, how the alcohol industry is sustaining itself, and what the future of it will look like.

Craig Wilkinson May 06, 2020

The role of the patriarch has evolved more in the 21st century than ever before. Being in a relationship with a partner and a family is a dynamic that brings with it complexity at the best of times. What is the role of a father in times of stress? Are there core traits that all men share? How do men socialise vs women? There are four intrinsic observations which men can undergo to alleviate tensions before they spill over into the home. How can men be gentler, more forgiving, and less condemning towards themselves... and how will this affect family dynamics?

Penny, Viscountess Cobham CBE May 05, 2020

What does it take to have been on the boards of the likes of the English Tourist Board and the Victoria and Albert Museum? Or, to have been appointed the Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the 2014 Birthday Honours for services to tourism? Penny, Viscountess Cobham knows this all too well as this is just part of the extraordinary life she lives. Gareth got the opportunity to chat to her while she's under lockdown in Cape Town, to get insight into some of the lessons that have shaped her life so far.

Toby Shapshak May 04, 2020

Running a media publication in the midst of the coronavirus lockdown has given Toby Shapshak an interesting viewpoint of the rest of the world. Touching on the state of media, how nimble and agile we all ought to be, and where he sees the future to be headed, Gareth picks the brain of this editor of Stuff Magazine on points you can learn from.

Mandy Wiener Apr 28, 2020

Mandy Wiener has been keeping a fascinating perspective during South Africa's lockdown - interrogating everything from who some of the political decision makers are, to weighing out the pros and cons of a cigarette ban. And of course, a catch-up with the award-winning journalist wouldn't be valid without also touching on how organised crime is thriving in a time like this... and how her gangster contacts are doing!

Tat Wolfen Apr 24, 2020

With the world currently in unpredictable times, Gareth reaches out to hear from multimedia communicator Tat Wolfen to interrogate ideas and structures brought on by the spread of the coronavirus. Given the political climate the world over, the two also discuss a myriad of ramifications brought on by the government-instituted lockdowns like ‘Trump Derangement Syndrome’, the battling economy, and the World Health Organisation, which was dubbed "China's PR company" in this conversation.

Colin Coleman Apr 23, 2020

Covid-19 has changed the geo-political and global economic landscape forever. As a man who has held executive office globally in the economic sector, what does Colin Coleman think about Cyril Ramaphosa’s Covid-19 economic relief plan for South Africa holistically? Which sectors of the economy should South Africa prioritise during this crisis? Will the social compact need to change, and how will this be implemented globally? Are IMF loans a nail in the coffin for South Africa’s economy, or is doomsday reporting sensationalist fear-mongering? Globally we know one thing for sure - we’re all at the stage of “do whatever it takes!"

#LivingInLockdown: Vusi Thembekwayo Apr 22, 2020

How does a titan of industry balance health, family and business during lockdown? How long will it take us to return to full economic activity? Which industries are likely to be Covid-19 proof? Though he misses the gym, Vusi Thembekwayo gets up at the same time every day, so that he can continue to lead his team and serve his clients during a time of tremendous chaos. We are now in the new normal... this is a time for the strong to lead - and lead he shall!

#LivingInLockdown: Professor David Block Apr 20, 2020

Cosmic infinity and feeling free go hand in hand. What is it like for one of the leading astronomers on Earth to be confined by law to his home? Can he find inspiration in solitude? Technology allows us to chronicle our lives like never before, the professor has an app suggestion which will improve your camera skills in no time. Can sanity be found in the stars above?

#LivingInLockdown: David Mellor Apr 20, 2020

How does an award-winning British broadcaster, newspaper columnist, barrister and former politician end up being in lockdown in South Africa? David Mellor QC chats to Gareth Cliff about how his holiday in South Africa was extended to 'lockdown'. Having had an illustrious career in politics serving in the Cabinets of Margaret Thatcher and John Major, how does David Mellor QC feel world leaders havefaired since the onset of Covid-19? Never shy of an opinion, he is unreserved about where the blame for this pandemic lies. And with his love of the arts, music and football, how does he fill his days during the lockdown?

#LivingInLockdown: Yvonne Chaka Chaka Apr 20, 2020

Being one of Africa’s greatest singers ever, how does a legend deal with not being able to sing for her adoring fans? Has the ministry been helping artists in South Africa during lockdown? On a personal level, are there any skills she's developing? How has she embraced online meetings? Record labels and artists in South Africa need to have an earnest conversation about fair pay, is this the time to come to the table? How can the wealthy help the vulnerable?

#LivingInLockdown: Jack Parow Apr 17, 2020

Two budgies, a chicken, and a bobble head of Jesus. No that’s not a Scandinavian indie band’s name - it's the lockdown reality of 'That Romantic Afrikaans Rapper', Jack Parow. As a man who is always travelling, the lockdown has been a double-edged sword mentally, the rest has reinvigorated the creative juices... but the rush of performing in front of a live crowd cannot be replaced by love nor money. It’s been 10 years of the edgy 'zeff' star producing hit after hit. Jack also has an exclusive announcement, there's something special to come for his fans!

#LivingInLockdown: Donovan Goliath Apr 17, 2020

Though the new comedy club he had just opened with his business partners a year ago had to shut down due to Covid-19, fortunately this quick-witted comedian didn’t have all his eggs in one basket. Donovan has written stage comedy off for 6 months, but lockdown has inspired him to create an Instagram show and corporate South Africa has already come on board to sponsor. Living with a professional violinist sounds great - until you remember that she teaches children online for hours... every day! The true creatives will shine through in lockdown, and humour and laughter are the highest form of compassion right now.

#LivingInLockdown: Carolyn Steyn Apr 17, 2020

Carolyn Steyn's regular schedule - which includes a radio show, her charity work with 67 blankets, and an improvised cardio routine of running up the stairs - has helped to maintain some normalcy during the Covid-19 lockdown. To her shock, she hasn’t fought with her husband once so far, but to her delight the world has shown unilateral empathy where needed... and she expects this to continue beyond lockdown. BC and AC will take on a new meaning - AC, After Covid will be different, but better. She is proud of her president and proud of her fellow citizens. A theatre performer and lover for life, she will do what she can to help the show go on!

#LivingInLockdown: Rosie Motene Apr 16, 2020

Imagine you suffer from anxiety, and your phone and wifi crash in the first week of a pandemic fuelled lockdown? How does one regulate anxiety, what do you look for physiologically? The booze ban... is it good or bad that South Africa imposed this? Is Africa equipped to absorb the unilateral effects of Covid-19, or should we be concerned? Gender-based violence is a terrible affliction in South Africa's society - how can vulnerable women trapped in hell on earth during this lockdown period with abusive partners call for help? Rosie details the options. Yes you are in lockdown, but you do not have to lockdown your voice!

#LivingInLockdown: Oneal Madumo Apr 16, 2020

One of Botswana’s finest exports of all time reveals that as a home body, lockdown for him has been a picnic so far. Fortunately he pivoted a few years ago and was already working digitally, so his business has not suffered. Being OCD, he is always over-stocked with essentials - including booze - so no worries there either. His family in Botswana relies on him for information and a sense of calm regarding Covid-19, and he has done his best to ease their nerves. Although Oneal doesn’t believe he makes good company in real life, his online DJ sets have taken off and the sponsors are flooding in. The music industry in South Africa may have become stagnant, now is the time to evolve and adapt to create new revenue streams. His advice is, be careful who you choose to stay with for lockdown!

#LivingInLockdown: Nina Hastie Apr 16, 2020

The best comedy often comes from the darkest places. Nina details her struggles with mental health and what cues she looks for to know if she might need some help. Having rid herself of smoking and drinking as vices some time back, she has a deep empathy for those who suffer with addiction. The unhealed wounds of Apartheid are revealing themselves in this pandemic, as South Africa struggles to appease all citizens with its lockdown policies. What does a comedian do to relax? Every day you can expect content to drop on the socials from this hysterical human during lockdown. Sorry excuse me, her black cat's name is who… and the white one is who? Oh yes… and we can’t say this enough, “Thank God for Cyril!"

#LivingInLockdown: K.F. Malindi Apr 15, 2020

Zimbabwe is a nation which finds itself uniquely poised to face this pandemic. What looks like backward ways may very well be an advantage in the long term. Cash-based economies will not feel a credit crunch as 80-90% of industry in Zimbabwe is informal trading. K.F. is fortunate enough to have work in the marketing sector and can work remotely, but he details how a country with a medical system which could barely serve its people in normal times is responding to Covid-19. The Zim people have known empty shelves before... are they hoarding essential goods?

#LivingInLockdown: Prof. Jonathan Jansen Apr 15, 2020

Though his letter of employment says extinguished, he is quite the opposite. The distinguished Professor Jonathan Jansen is a prolific author and educator, and lockdown for him has meant more marking of postgraduate papers and finishing manuscripts for his next book… same old, same old really. The scholar and avid Blue Bulls fan has interesting observations about the possibility of state authoritarianism becoming a tool of continued terror post lockdown - especially against the vulnerable. As an educator, he lays out ideas of how South Africa’s largely underprivileged schoolchildren can catch up a lost syllabus year. How do the idiosyncrasies of South Africa's economic inequality affect how we should govern the lockdown? He’s happy to wash his hands, but not to sing Happy Birthday… find out why.

#LivingInLockdown: Peter Matlare Apr 10, 2020

"The title doesn’t do the job…" feels like a line Peter Matlare might deliver daily to employees and executive colleagues. Covid-19’s enforced worldwide lockdown means that for the first time in global history, commerce and a pandemic are unilaterally at loggerheads and affecting every citizen on Earth - regardless of your nationality, age or economic class. How will global commerce and service delivery evolve to survive? He details why a strict regimen is vital to his continuing role at work as a global leader in his sector. Never up later than 6AM, Africa and the world at large can rest assured that this titan of industry is ready for the challenge post-coronavirus, and his optimism can be seen in action, not just words!

#LivingInLockdown: Jonti Searll Apr 10, 2020

Change is not easy for any of us, especially when that change means spending extended time in close proximity with our most intimate partners. Life in lockdown for a therapist is sub-optimal, but sex guru Jonti Searll has gone from anolague to digital in the stroke of a pleasureable transition week. Is it okay to explore our willder sexual pursuits while Covid-19 is floating around? What precautions should we be undertaking while coronavirus is a threat, can we have sex at all with our partners? In the spiritual sense, what do we do if we are clashing with our partners, but are bound in isolation with them... do we just give up, or is there hope of rediscovering a deeper level of intimacy which will help the relationship grow?

#LivingInLockdown: Casper de Vries Apr 10, 2020

The world for some is an oyster, and some people are the oyster. The king of South African Afrikaans satire, Casper de Vries, is one such human. Ever the creator, his lockdown living will be spent working... a new project is in post-production. Does he have a routine, or is he just taking it easy? He is in lockdown in Tshwane with his crew and they are still getting along. There can be a better world - global suffering tends to bring people together. The world will go on after Covid-19, but for now it's just a bit of RnR with man's best friend. Cas Oppie Kassie, out now on Kyknet!

#LivingInLockdown: Randall Abrahams Apr 10, 2020

When you work from home regularly and you are an introverted hoarder of music records, the lockdown is something you have been preparing for, forever! South Africa’s government has responded better than most around the world regarding the lockdown. Can parents learn anything from their children in the lockdown? The markets need to be carefully rolled out when economies open up again, because big companies might cannibalise the smaller guys, just like in 2008. As a former Idols judge, what does Randall think will become of South Africa’s music industry and its artists?

#LivingInLockdown: Lerato Tshabalala Apr 10, 2020

A pandemic brings its own challenges to every individual. If you are in a relationship, those challenges are doubled and depending on the partner that you have, it will reduce or amplify the stress levels during lockdown. Being in the client-facing side of business can be challenging when physical distancing is a state mandated way of life. Lerato has no routine... but as a freelancer, she’s always working anyway, so nothing has changed.

#LivingInLockdown: Unathi Nkayi Apr 10, 2020

Unathi doesn’t feel guilty for enjoying the lockdown and that’s okay. Life is pretty normal for the Khaya FM DJ, and luckily her ex-husband has been a champion in taking the kids for the entire time so far. She’s taken this time to spring clean, but she’s not getting caught up in the attempt to be super productive while in lockdown. Will marketing and marketing budgets be a thing of the past once coronavirus has passed us by? As a content creator, she has never been a Netflix person, but that has now changed. Once again she will grace the April cover of True Love for the 6th time. While being in the suburbs is a nice place to be locked down, what’s it like for people in the townships?

#LivingInLockdown: Gavin Koppel Apr 09, 2020

Lockdown for most people has been a chance to work from home and maybe take the foot off the gas slightly... but not for Gavin Koppel. His son Danny K has had him working flat out on shout4masks.co.za to produce and distribute face masks at cost for health workers. This is done through donations and public engagement on the website. The generosity of ordinary people has been incredible to see, and the legendary radio DJ could not be more grateful. Oh by the way, his comments on service staff are brilliant!

#LivingInLockdown: ProVerb Apr 09, 2020

The old adage is, "Pain can either hurt you or change you"... and ProVerb believes that only those who adapt will survive in business after the coronavirus lockdown ends. Mindset is the building block for everything else. A creature of routine, luckily for him his kids are old enough to entertain themselves and he can do his radio show from home. He’s so old school he still keeps a physical diary, but this gives him the structure to be a success in life. He even diarises his relaxing time! One thing is certain - there is no going back, whether that’s good or bad is up to you.

#LivingInLockdown: Loyiso Bala Apr 09, 2020

For a Christian network to have a pandemic lockdown around Easter is a real kick in the teeth. However when you have dynamic, driven humans they will do what they must to ensure that technology and the good word can unite and be delivered to the faithful globally - without disruptions. Streamed sermons may become the new normal. Loyiso details the rigours of being a singer in South Africa, and how the music business was struggling anyway and may be crippled by the pandemic. Blessed to be with family in lockdown, the pop star and Masters student believes religious institutions will be doing some deep reflection about their form and function post Covid-19.

#LivingInLockdown: Flip van der Merwe Apr 08, 2020

Now living in France, Flip van der Merwe has stayed in touch with South Africa by listening to CliffCentral. Being a mountain of a man is hard enough at the best of times... now imagine being nearly 2 metres tall and having to be in lockdown in those tiny houses in France. How is life with his new partner in lockdown, and has he been able to connect with people back home? Basic human relations may need to evolve post Covid-19. Retirement was a no brainer for the former Springbok, and lockdown has been a time of solemn reflection for him.

#LivingInLockdown: Danny K Apr 07, 2020

Singer extraordinaire Danny K has hit all the notes on stage, and now is doing the very same when it comes to being a social leader in these challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic. Shout SA has ensured that masks can be produced and sold at cost en masse, with a view to making it affordable for medical professionals and those who really need them. shout4masks.co.za is where all the donations can be made. It's a challenging time, but Danny has taken the mantle from his father and believes that our mindset is crucial in beating this pandemic together.

#LivingInLockdown: Rabbi Goldman Apr 07, 2020

As Pesach comes around in 2020, the Holy Day will for the first time in living memory be observed without mass gatherings globally. However, perhaps the engagement via technological platforms has brought the global Jewish community closer than ever. The Rabbi is speaking to gatherings in countries he would never have spoken to, and as seder approaches, the message is, "Even if you are alone, you need not feel lonely." Kindness, sensitivity and caring would be the signs of a brave new world post Covid-19 - there is no going back, there is only higher consciousness and togetherness after this collective trauma. It may be the worst of times, but the wise Rabbi has declared unreservedly, a bias to positivity and spoken without hesitation, "It can also be the best of times."

#LivingInLockdown: Maps Maponyane Apr 07, 2020

Mr Big Chest, A.K.A Abuti Buns, has always had the dream of having a restaurant and just as Buns Out was named as one of the best burger joints on earth, Covid-19 struck. For a man who is constantly on the go, how is he adapting to this period of forced rest? Helter skelter being the norm, how will he use this time to reflect on his future plans? His mom wanted to come and be in lockdown with him, but he had a hilarious response to that. Something which has been quite cool is how the digital community has been a place of solace for Maps. Our reintegration into public life might be a slower process than we hope, and his business may have to make some tough decisions if the lockdown is extended, but he will control what he can. Find out why he compares the Queen of England to his burger joint... what a time to be alive!

#LivingInLockdown: Cindy Nell Apr 07, 2020

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder they say... but not in this case. If you have eyes and are alive, you realise beauty is Cindy Nell, and the cosmetics entrepreneur and mother has decided to have lockdown in nature with her family. What challenges has this disruption caused in her life? We often focus on children needing to do schoolwork and routines for them, but what about adults - how do they stay sane? Being a beauty queen doesn't make you immune from being human and anxiety is a reality for the spinning obsessed mom. The most important thing in all this for her is to make sure that her kids are not stressed by the pandemic reality, and everything is about connecting with them and preserving their mental health. The world will get back to normal. Kindness is on the other side of the Covid-19 horizon.

#LivingInLockdown: The Kiffness Apr 06, 2020

Since time immemorial, the court jester has always been held in high regard by the masses, and with good reason. Now David Scott is no idiot or fool, but he has perfected the art of satire - especially when satirising the highest members of South African society. What is the role of satire if it has a role at all in tough times? How has The Kiffness developed from a small band into an industry leader in South Africa? How does a partner adjust to living with a creative soul in a confined space? How long does the process of creating his songs take? What’s lockdown been like for a social commentator, since he can’t get out to interact with the world? His response about his wife and how happy they are together is something to be cherished for life. May the road rise to meet you too good sir!

#LivingInLockdown: Dave Levinsohn Apr 06, 2020

Some entertainment can happen without fans and none of the allure of the artist or art is lost, but stand up comedy needs the crowd, it’s not a vibe otherwise. They say comedy is not only there to entertain, but also to teach us about the human condition, but what does a stalwart of the comedy world have to learn about himself as he faces the lockdown solo, with Coco, who might be a stripper? When is Covid-19 scheduled to get funny, because some comedians have already made jokes and it’s been received awkwardly because of the timing? If you are used to being an entertainer, how do you entertain yourself? If your ex brings you food, how do you make sure it’s not poisoned? Dave’s routine - just like him - is hilarious!

#LivingInLockdown: Adriaan Groeneveld Apr 06, 2020

When you have crevices in your systems - whether it be in governance, business or your personal life - stress and trauma turn those into canyons. South Africa's societal and economic inequality has led to the application of a pastiche Chinese and European Covid-19 lockdown, seeming somewhat inhumane in the eyes of many. This has not been helped by outbreaks of a seemingly puritanical, heavy-handed response to citizens on the lower rung of our economic sector of society. Is it down to citizens or our leaders to tackle these philosophical dilemmas? The brutality of having to choose whether to save lives or to save the economy may soon be on the agenda for global leaders... should they seek to be popular or fiscally prudent? Often trauma forces us to ask questions which we would have preferred to answer at a different time, but leadership is needed when the chips are down, and Covid-19 has placed at the feet of leaders around the globe, a challenge not seen before.

#LivingInLockdown: Justice Malala Apr 04, 2020

The rate at which the world switched from analogue to digital is amazing, the new normal is online now. How does a man whose job it is to report on the news and the fabric of society stay sane in lockdown? What role does Justice Malala's wife play in his morning routine, even though she’s in America while he sits in Kalk Bay, Cape Town? As the individual cost of not connecting physically with others comes to the fore, we need people to also report on the possible socio-economic factors at play daily in this pandemic economy. Can the country afford to deal with an outbreak of Covid-19? There’s a fine line between social obedience and tyranny, is South Africa’s military putting large scale public safety on a knife edge? We've seen military and state vehicles in townships before, but last time we had Nelson Mandela to placate the restless masses... can Cyril Ramaphosa do the same?

#LivingInLockdown: Tumi Morake Apr 04, 2020

”These people have regressed!” This is how Tumi Morake speaks about her own children and their struggle to adapt to the Covid-19 lockdown. This might explain why her children say she is driving them crazy. An interesting decision was made about leaving their new home in America to go and join family elsewhere in the States, and the situation has turned into a real life sitcom. With her usual wit and candour we hear about her struggles with mental health and how that battle is going in these self-isolation times. If you plan for a rainy day in Rands but now the rain comes in Dollars, what then? A fascinating revelation about what they could sacrifice as a family following coronavirus only goes to show how conscious the comedian is. Which softer sides of humanity will we see following this pandemic? And the Covid-19 lockdown rule number one... ”Embrace your rotundness and let the kids be free willy!"

#LivingInLockdown: Jen Su Apr 04, 2020

What happens when you have an immune challenged or compromised child, and the most contagious health pandemic of the modern age strikes... how should a parent react to this? Should America be copying China with their measures to control their citizens? Should the response be taken to the federal government in the fight against Covid-19? The things we take for granted like a take-away meal are not what they were - Jen gives her tips about how to be safe from infection from your food containers. The fashion industry has pulled together which is brilliant news. Build up your strength, you are going to need it, Covid-19 is just getting started unfortunately!

Maj Toure Apr 03, 2020

After seeing too many people he knew going to jail for gun possession charges, not because they robbed or killed somebody, but just because they had the gun... Maj Toure was inspired to make a change. He ended up forming Black Guns Matter in 2016 - a grassroots organisation that educates people in urban communities on their Second Amendment rights and responsibilities through firearms training and education. Gareth has a frank discussion with the North Philadelphia-raised activist on gun rights, freedom, politics and how these all affect each other.

#LivingInLockdown: Dr Dennis Goodman Apr 02, 2020

Is information overload better or worse than no information at all in a pandemic? What does a doctor do when he’s stuck on the West Coast of America, but he lives on the East Coast? In a bittersweet sequence of events, a new life has joined the Goodman family, while so many are clinging on to theirs. Dr Dennis Goodman (Clinical Professor of Medicine & Director of Integrative Medicine: NYU) unpacks the essence of what we understand about Covid-19 from a medical point of view at this stage. Price gouging with ventilators has reared its ugly head in America, but the US government has come to the rescue. The greatest challenge we now face as humanity is that, to truly comfort those you love, you have to stay away from them. The good doctor urges us to practice humanity... even if it’s just a virtual hug.

#LivingInLockdown: Siv Ngesi Apr 01, 2020

South Africans aren’t taking Covid-19 seriously enough, and if the current civil disobedience continues, Siv Ngesi believes we will have mass graves or have to burn bodies! Never shy of poking the social bear, this self-professed Adonis lookalike funny man believes any social distancing measures we implement in South Africa cannot mirror those of the first world, as the shoe doesn’t fit in our context and the cost of copy paste policy implementation in this case could be tens of thousands of lives. The expansion of Pornhub to the premium package for free has left many a man with too many choices, or is that a ridiculous statement in these times? There’s a dark all too real Covid-19 fear deep in the heart of the silver screen star though, and it’s haunting and personal.

Living in Lockdown: Pamina Bohrer Apr 01, 2020

"Perfection is the enemy of the good when it comes to emergency management!" So said Dr Mike Ryan of the World Health Organisation when asked how Covid-19 could be contained. Poignant words indeed especially considering the pandemic which the world is gripped by currently. The Italian Chamber has a bilateral allegiance to both South Africa and Italy, and the latter has been ravaged by Covid-19. Will South Africa learn from Italy's unfortunate circumstances? If Pamina Bohrer has anything to do with it, both countries can rest assured they have a heroine who will do her utmost to ensure both nations prosper. She speaks about what geo-political and global economic landscapes may look like after Covid-19, where hope has sprung eternal before, and what her role is in liaising on behalf of the land of Picasso in Madiba's Rainbow Nation.

 #LivingInLockdown: J'Something Mar 31, 2020

Are there any comforts within the shared experience of a global pandemic? Art is food for the soul and J'Something is an artist who loves his fans and being on stage performing. What is the life of an artist like in lockdown? With an album launch around the corner, can technology help him to creatively release the album without touring, and have it be feasible? Church Bells is the new single which is out now from Mi Casa, with the new album launching in May 2020. J shares some incredibly moving thoughts about what he hopes the world at large may look and feel like post Covid-19.

#LivingInLockdown: Ndaba Mandela Mar 30, 2020

What's it like to test positive for Covid-19, and what is the mental side of being diagnosed with such a virus? With a surname like Mandela, there is an honour and lineage of greatness to carry. Ndaba Mandela and his team have started The Mandela Institute for Humanity. The values and principles of his grandfather are transferable in his mind, and they have grounded him in everything he is emploring us all to take up as Africans. How should we deal with 21 days of lockdown? What lessons can we as humanity learn from this pandemic? Apparently green fingers, and something else which is green, are the way forward.

Alexandre Lazarow Mar 20, 2020

Wherever you are in the world, Silicon Valley has led the charge when it comes to setting the standard of entrepreneurship the world over... including what work culture looks like, and how systems are created. But have they slipped up when it comes to innovation? That’s a thought Alexandre Lazarow expands on in his new book, ‘Out-Innovate: How Global Entrepreneurs--from Delhi to Detroit--Are Rewriting the Rules of Silicon Valley’. Gareth has a conversation about innovation in business with this author and venture capitalist.

DrD Dorianne Weil, Clinical Psychology Mar 20, 2020

When a pandemic strikes, people tend to have alarm and terror as their base response. Dr D unpacks what is observable in the behaviour of society in moments of terror. Is panic more contagious than Covid-19? In times of self-isolation, there may very well be opportunities to attend to the needs of the human soul. Suffering doesn’t always need to go to waste, connecting with loved ones is a deliberate act. Can we bring ourselves to be introspective in this situation?

Colin Coleman Mar 16, 2020

Following his return to South Africa, Colin has had the coronavirus test done and he details what that was like. Now lecturing in New York at Yale, he feels like he’s back at university and is a man reinvigorated. Tito Mboweni’s 2020 Budget Speech... what should we like, and what should we apprehensive about? With the Covid-19 outbreak and its seismic effects on the world economy, what timelines are we actually looking at in terms of entering a recession?

Marian Tupy Mar 06, 2020

Don’t let the trappings of Twitter, 'fake news', or being stuck in traffic every day fool you... there’s been no better time to be alive than right now - as the Editor of HumanProgress.org, Marian Tupy and his team believe, and prove this through their website that shows how the state of humanity has improved in almost every way over time. Building the site on the premise that the media misuse data to paint an overly negative picture of development, Marian chats to Gareth about the good that's happening all around us.

Pearl Thusi Feb 28, 2020

The world truly is Pearl Thusi's oyster... she is flying high right now with the launch of 'Queen Sono' - a Netflix series with powerful punches and kicks! There are so many exciting changes she chats to Gareth about in this conversation: Adopting a daughter, major career successes, how she now deals with social media, and even new management. Get an unfiltered and authentic glimpse into the life of the TV presenter and actress here.

Cindy Alter Feb 21, 2020

Clout legend, Cindy Alter reveals all - from singing on all of Yvonne Chaka Chaka’s early songs, to her producer being an utter scumbag. She unpacks how she feels about performing her hit songs 'Save Me' and 'Substitute'. It’s 2020 and Cindy is still making music and keeping it real.

Herman Mashaba Feb 14, 2020

Former executive mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Herman Mashaba has had anything but a quiet and slow past couple of months. After a much-speculated exit from the DA, he has his eyes set on continuing with political service through The People’s Dialogue. He sets the record straight on several stories involving him in this conversation with Gareth Cliff. He also shares his thoughts on some hot-button issues, and discusses where his focus will lie in the next few months.

Shirley Lewis & Leon Swanepoel Feb 07, 2020

Here’s a love story that defies time, countries and basically everything in between. Shirley Lewis and Leon Swanepoel first met and fell in love as teenagers. They each soon went their separate ways after high school, had successful careers, relationships, moved and had families. But, 60 years after they first laid eyes on each other - they got back into communication and sparks started flying again! This is certainly an interview bound to make you feel giddy inside… Shirley and Leon share their story of a thriving relationship, at 84 years old.

Neil deGrasse Tyson Jan 31, 2020

Professor Neil deGrasse Tyson, undoubtedly one of the greatest scientific influencers today, has attracted one of the world’s largest online followings with his fascinating, widely accessible insights into science and our universe. So when Gareth Cliff gets an opportunity to pick his brain, gear up for a masterclass on getting your mind expanded and positively impacted like you never thought it could. Off the back of his new book, 'Letters from an Astrophysicist', he discusses the world of physics, chemistry, and so much more.

Mteto Nyati Jan 24, 2020

Mteto Nyati says he’s always known that he’s wanted to fix and build things. And, “fix and build things” is exactly what he’s done in his career as one of South Africa’s top CEOs. He’s steered the likes of Microsoft SA and MTN SA, to his current position at the helm of Altron. What makes a man of this calibre? How does he keep going? What does he have his eyes set on already, for the future? The CEO and author of 'Betting on a Darkie' answers these questions himself.

Hayleigh Chamberlain Jan 22, 2020

It’s Hayleigh’s World and we all just live in it. Over 370k followers later and this tech enthusiast is not slowing down. Ear pods, laptops, gaming consoles... if you need to know what tech is best, Hayleigh’s channel 'HayIs World' is the place to go. We speak to this trailblazer of the digital space about how to monetise your YouTube channel, how to read deleted WhatsApp messages, and 3D scanning. You will never guess what most of her followers love about her. And the YouTube gold button is loading!

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