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SUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 34: Behind the Scenes of SA’s Creative Industry: KAMERS/Makers on Fast Fashion & the Future of LocalThis episode takes us into the heart of South Africa’s creative economy, because the things we wear, the objects we cherish, the spaces we curate, and the flavours we love all begin with a maker — a real human with a real story.And those stories are under threat.I’m joining you from the vibrant KAMERS/Makers market, a cornerstone of local craftsmanship and one of the most influential creative platforms on the continent. With me is Ben-Carl Havemann, CEO and Co-Owner of KAMERS/Makers, and together we unpack...
2025-11-2624 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 33: What No One Tells You About Working For YourselfThis episode is a little different… It’s just you and me, diving into the truth about working for yourself. Not the Instagram version, not the highlight reel — the real, layered, beautiful, messy, and wildly rewarding journey of building a creative business from scratch.If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes, what no one tells you, or what I’ve learnt while juggling a blog, a podcast, a freelance writing career, being a wife and mom, the odd social media post and some consulting on the side — this one’s for you. I’m answering...
2025-11-1835 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 32: Taj Hotels Expands Into AfricaThe Taj Cape Town has a way of drawing one in, spoiling you to bits and then inspiring you to go out and explore. Its impressive façade is one that tells many a story of the Mother City, with the 5-star hotel occupying a building that used to be the South African Reserve Bank. I’ve stayed at this Taj Hotels property before, but following recent refurbishments of its rooms and suites, I couldn’t resist revisiting. While I was there, I sat down with Mark Wernich, the Cluster General Manager Africa and Business Devel...
2025-11-1014 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 31: Stepping Back in Time - The Living Museum of SoetmelksvleiProbably one of the most authentic ways in which to step back in time, Babylonstoren's Soetmelksvlei is a South African bucket list item like no other. This working farm - ultimately a living museum - showcases what farm life was like in the 19th century, allowing one to explore and learn more about various skills that have mostly been forgotten. From enjoying freshly baked roosterkoek and farm bread with flour milled at their on-site, water powered mill, to exploring the beautifully curated farmhouse with its tangible stories and transporting scents, it’s an incredible, live display of South African he...
2025-11-0417 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 30: Vergenoegd Löw - Farm to Table Experiences That Tell StoriesChef Michelle Theron from Vergenoegd Löw has come to understand the value of slowing down and now incorporates that into her approach when it comes to menu planning, plating and food and wine experiences. She explains that allowing the farm’s inner workings to dictate her pace has given her new perspective and she now sees things that might have previously gone unnoticed. In the end, it’s those things that inspire her creativity in the kitchen, making her a chef to be reckoned with and calling for an exciting new chapter where the estate and its refurb is co...
2025-10-2722 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 29: Exploring The Claremont by Sabi Sabi CollectionDuring a recent trip to Cape Town, one of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY host, Renate Engelbrecht's first stops was The Claremont. Many might not have heard of it yet, since it’s just opened its doors on the 1st of October 2025. Renate was lucky enough to be one of the firsts to experience the magic of this boutique hotel – a heritage building designed by architect, Magdalena Gertrude Sauer, who was the first woman to practice architecture in South Africa; a pioneer in her field. The Claremont forms part of the Sabi Sabi Collection and also happens to b...
2025-10-2117 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 28: Behind the Drinks at Beyond with Jennifer HugéJennifer Hugé is no stranger to South Africa’s service and beverage scene. In fact, she’s the Service & Beverage Director and one of South Africa’s top restaurant groups – FYN – and brings so much more than just a glass of wine to the table. SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY host, Renate Engelbrecht sat down with her recently, following a six-course meal at Beyond Restaurant, located at the beautiful Constantia-based Buitenverwachting. This wine farm was founded by Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the new Dutch colony at the tip of Africa, and is on the east-fa...
2025-10-1421 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 27: Raw & real with Leandie du Randt: Life, Love and Everything in BetweenEver wondered what life looks like beyond the spotlight? In this honest and inspiring conversation, South African actress, entrepreneur and creative force, Leandie du Randt joins Renate Engelbrecht on the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY Podcast to talk about big life choices, travel, mindful living and embracing change.From how travel shapes her creativity, to her go-to destinations and drinks, Leandie shares what living authentically means to her — and why slowing down can be one of life’s greatest adventures.In this episode, we chat about:- Lean...
2025-10-0731 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 26: Inventure - Exploring the Unchartered Territory WithinAre you searching for ways to truly slow down? Perhaps you crave quiet moments, fewer distractions, and meaningful ways of getting to know yourself better.Too often, life feels too busy, too full – like an endless rat race. Many of us have unlearned the art of being alone with ourselves, while screens dominate our attention. But there’s hope – and sometimes it lies in stepping away.In this episode, Organisational Psychologist Julie Robinson shares her journey of embracing slow living in the Karoo and creating transformative spaces for others to do...
2025-09-2935 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 25: Executive Pellie Grobler on Plating HeritageExecutive Chef Pellie Grobler is no stranger to Pretoria’s culinary scene. He’s currently leading the team at SMOKE, a trendy food spot at The Village in the popular neighbourhood, Hazelwood. The Village is constantly evolving, with new restaurants popping up regularly and in this episode, Pellie shares his secret to staying relevant and top of mind while staying true to his roots. With South Africa celebrating Heritage Day on 24 September, what better way to take part in the celebrations than to listen in on how Chef Pellie Grobler plates heritage and nostalgia while staying on trend? Here’s my c...
2025-09-2323 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 24: In Conversation with Tim Atkin, Master of WineToday on SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY, I’m joined by one of the world’s most influential voices in wine - Tim Atkin, Master of Wine. Tim is a UK-based wine journalist with an international following, contributing to publications like Harpers and Decanter, while also running his own award-winning website, timatkin.com. Beyond his writing, he’s also an accomplished photographer, with work published in The Guardian and exhibited across the globe.Over the course of his career, Tim has been recognised with countless awards - from the Glenfiddich Wine Writer Award to the International Wine & Spirit...
2025-09-1635 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 23: Celebrating Cap Classique with Graham Beck's Pieter FerreiraIn this episode, I sit down with Graham Beck - top South African sparkling wine producer and recent repeat winner in the Tim Atkin South Africa Special Report. My guest is none other than their COO, Pieter Ferreira and we touch on why we'll always choose bubbly for celebrations. With Graham Beck being the Sparkling Wine of the Year 2025, it's only natural that we also dive into two of their latest releases. If you're looking for a luxury South African wine, this award-winning winery - which focuses solely on...
2025-09-0927 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 22: Featuring dermatologist and author, Dr. Eyal Levit and his book, The King's RaceIn this episode (recorded on Zoom with time difference, so excuse the sometimes dodgy sound), I welcome Dr. Eyal Levit - a dermatologist, but now also author of a children's book, to the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast. We dive straight into the importance of parents and children reading books together for opportunities to discuss the narrative, as well as the inspiration behind the book. The book - The King's Race - follows the journey of a young horse called Spots, and highlights the ebb and flow of life and the...
2025-09-0226 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 21: What to Expect from a Stay at Hyde Hotel Rosebank, JohannesburgWelcome back to SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY — the podcast where lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine come together.In today’s episode, I’m taking you to the vibrant heart of Johannesburg, where Rosebank’s hospitality scene gets elevated at Hyde Hotel Rosebank. I’m joined by Jess Redinger, the General Manager of this stylish urban hotel, to talk about everything Hyde Hotel has to offer following its rebrand — from luxury hotel packages in Johannesburg to its chic in-house restaurant, Proud Mary, and curated tasting room experiences at NPF Tasting Room Rosebank.We dive in...
2025-09-0113 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 20: Wellness Redefined - Discovering Saxon Spa Steyn CityWelcome to Episode 20 of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY Podcast! In this milestone episode, recorded at the breathtaking new Saxon Spa Steyn City, I sit down with Spa Manager Tanya Lopes to uncover the story behind this serene sanctuary. We talk about:- The inspiration behind the spa’s interiors- The meaningful themes woven into each treatment room- Unique offerings and curated products designed to transport you away from city buzz- How wellness and intentional living come together in this one-of-a-kind spaceAnd yes — if y...
2025-08-2621 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 19: Chris Bertish - When Adventure Meets AdversityIn this episode of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY, I sit down with world-renowned adventurer, author, speaker and ocean conservationist, Chris Bertish - a man who has redefined what’s possible on the water and in life. Fresh off the launch of his ambitious TransCat Expedition: Oceans Without Borders, Chris shares the story behind his bold decision to sail 100 nautical miles into the Pacific before making the tough call to turn back. Instead of seeing this as a setback, he reframed it as an opportunity: to strengthen his vessel, refine his strategy and return stronger, safer and more impactful than ev...
2025-08-1930 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 18: The Truth Within The Lie - Dana Grant on Living the Life You DeserveToday's guest's story is as soul-stirring as it is strategy-rich. She's an International Master Life and Business Coach, a sought-after keynote speaker and the bestselling author of a powerful new book, The Truth Within The Lie. She also has her own podcast: The Dana Grant Show. Dana Grant has lived, lost, rebuilt and risen. From battling chronic illness to building the multimillion-dollar brand Cali’Flour Foods; from being named Chico’s Entrepreneur of the Year two years in a row to leading transformational retreats across Europe - she has not just walked the talk… she’s...
2025-08-1247 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 17: Chiefs Tented Camps: Inside SA’s Most Magical Wildflower CampIf you’ve ever needed a reason to pause, to wander, to witness the earth in celebration - this is it. The Namaqua Flower Camp is a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life don’t last forever. And that’s exactly what makes them unforgettable.In this episode, we’re talking about Namaqualand in wildflower season and, more specifically, the Namaqua Flower Beach Camp - an immersive, off-the-grid luxury experience brought to life by the extraordinary team at Chiefs Tented Camps.Joining me is Lysta Stander, co-founder and Executive Director of SA Experiences - also k...
2025-08-0540 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 16: Sheep, Style & Sustainability: Karoo Winter Wool ReflectionsIn this episode, we head back to the Karoo - where winter style, creativity and community recently came together in the most unexpected and inspiring way at the annual Karoo Winter Wool Festival.I catch up with the three creative forces behind the acclaimed Wool World exhibition - fashion designer Lezanne Viviers of Viviers Studio, and the visionary design duo, Justus and Nisha van der Hoven from Hoven Design.Together, they transformed wool into a sensory journey of architecture, fashion, storytelling and sustainable design - rooted deeply in the...
2025-07-2936 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 15: The Modern Appeal of Estate Living in South Africa*This episode is brought to you by Pecanwood Estate, a gated golf and lifestyle estate that allows for wellness, balance and peaceful community living near Johannesburg.If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking about escaping the city lifestyle and wondered what your life might look like when you live in a gated lifestyle estate in South Africa, this episode’s for you. In today’s fast-paced world, more and more South Africans are seeking a different rhythm – one rooted in intention, nature, community and safety. As I stepped into Pecanwood Estate’s Boathouse...
2025-07-2232 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 14: How Travel Has Changed Our Perspective On FamilyToday’s episode is extra special - and a little more personal - because I’m joined by someone who knows every detour, every passport stamp, and every packed-and-repacked suitcase of this journey… my husband, Wikus Engelbrecht.Whether chasing sunsets with our children or navigating lost luggage and tiny rental cars, travel has a way of revealing what really matters. And often, it’s not the destination - it’s the people you share it with.So, in this episode, we’re swapping stories, asking big (and slightly uncomfortable) questions and reflecting on how travel has shaped n...
2025-07-1555 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 13: How to Style a Jersey in 2025Wondering how to style a jersey fashionably this winter? In this episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, Renate Engelbrecht dives into the timeless world of knitwear, guiding you through how to style your favourite wool or natural fibre jersey for the Autumn/Winter 2025 season.If you're ready to embrace slow fashion, sustainable styling and conscious wardrobe choices, this episode is your winter style guide!In This Episode:• Why a jersey is the ultimate capsule wardrobe staple• 5 outfit ideas for styling your knitwear• Tips on tex...
2025-07-0116 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 12: In conversation with children's book author, illustrator and publisher, Kelly KaschulaIn this heartwarming and inspiring episode, I sit down with children’s book author, illustrator and publishing powerhouse Kelly Kaschula – the creative force behind the Brave Kids series: Short Stories to Inspire Our Future World-Changers. With Volume 3 that launched on June 3, 2025, Kelly shares the story behind this global anthology project that brings together authors from around the world to empower children through storytelling.In this episode we explore the magic of meaningful stories, the importance of sparking brave conversations between parents and kids, and how books can become life tools for navigating today’s modern world. Kelly gives...
2025-06-1733 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 11 - Cruise Vacations for Sun-Seekers (and Snow-Seekers)Gaynor Neill from Cruise Vacations sits down with host, Renate Engelbrecht, sharing some must-know insights about luxury cruising. If you’re a sun-seeker keen on escaping the South African winter, this episode is for you! At the same time, snow-seekers will also walk away with some handy tips from this episode, so hit play and start planning your next adventure! Website: https://www.cruise-vacations.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cruisevacationssa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cruisevacationssa
2025-06-1021 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 10: What to Pack for SafariHaving been on various safari experiences, here are my tips, tricks and suggestions on what to pack for safari. #safaristyle #safari #packing #travel #outfitideas #whattopack #suitcaseandchardonnay
2025-06-0313 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 9: On Safari with Too Wild at Amaya LodgeWhen filming wildlife, a whole new way of 'going on safari' unfolds. Here, in the Timbavati, you get to see the bush from a whole new perspective with the expert guidance of Too Wild, based at Amaya Lodge. Apart from staying in pure quiet luxury, you get to slow down on safari, but on a whole new level. You get to take in all the beauty of the bush - from every hue of an African sunrise to the detail of an elephant's lashes.Wikus and I visited Amaya Lodge and spent time with...
2025-05-2715 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 8: Destinations to Travel to this Secret SeasonToday, we're diving into South Africa's Secret Season - that magical window from May to September when the bushveld comes alive in unexpected ways. Think crisp mornings, golden sunsets and wildlife congregating around waterholes. Visiting safari lodges during the Secret Season has its perks. The cooler temperatures mean more active wildlife during the day and the sparse vegetation offers unobstructed views. Also, rates are often more favourable during this time of the year. In this episode, we'll explore safari destinations (and others) perfect for this season. I’ve chosen destinations I’ve been to before, but also one o...
2025-05-1326 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 7: Fire & Flavour with Kokkedoor Vuur & Vlam's Lourens EngelbrechtWe’re joined by a truly inspiring South African: One of the two braai kings of Kokkedoor Vuur & Vlam — Lourens Engelbrecht. Together with his braai partner, Johan de Villiers from the boutique winery, Klein Roosboom, they took home the end prize, wowed the judges and stole the hearts of viewers across the country — and Lourens took time off from his busy schedule to tell us all about it!Watch the second season of Kokkedoor Vuur & Vlam on DStv Catch Up. Subscribe to SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY's weekly newsletter. Subscribe to SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY's WhatsApp channel.#Sui...
2025-05-0632 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 6: Autumn Wines to Fall for This SeasonWe dive into the golden glow of autumn and the wines that are perfect for sipping through the season. I’m joined by a guest who truly understands flavour, balance and the beauty of a good pour - Moses Magwaza. Moses is the sommelier at Prosopa Restaurant, one of Pretoria and South Africa’s finest Greek restaurants.SHOW NOTESGIVEAWAY:You can WIN a Winemakers Lunch for two at the Rust en Vrede Tasting Room just outside of Stellenbosch. To enter: 1. Visit my Instagram page @suit...
2025-04-2926 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 5: Are Skinny Jeans Back? A Denim Debate You’ll Want to HearMy guest, Amanda Wiggill and I unpack all things skinny jeans (and other jeans), how to style them and which jeans you need to have in your wardrobe this season. This fashion podcast episode breaks it all down with pro styling tips,runway inspo and real-life outfit ideas. Perfect for lovers of lifestyle, fashion and capsule wardrobes. In addition, you can WIN with Suitcase & Chardonnay and Pan Macmillan (competition closes at the end of May 2025). I am giving away some Brianna Wiest books to one lucky listener! Listen to the competition details at the...
2025-04-2225 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 4: Embracing the Journey of Slow LivingVisit Suitcase & Chardonnay here: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/ Follow Suitcase & Chardonnay on Instagram: @suitcaseandchardonnayhttps://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Find a short introduction to Slow Living here: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/what-is-slow-living/ | COMPETITION |Enter and WIN Brianna Wiest’s book, The Mountain is You (and other books in her stable): 1. Screenshot this podcast and share it in your Instagram stories. Remember to tag @suitcaseandchardonnay and @panmacmillansa 2. Follow this link and subscribe to Suitcase & Chardonnay’s newsletter: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/win-brianna-wiests-book-the-mountain-is-you-and-more/*Competition closes on 30 May 2025. Vali...
2025-04-1557 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 3: Southern Sun De Wagen & Why Stellenbosch Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket ListI recently stayed in Stellenbosch, also known as South Africa’s City of Oaks. The Southern Sun De Wagen was my base for two days from which I explored the beautiful town. Located just off Dorp Street, which is South Africa’s longest residential street and the old wagon way to Cape Town, the hotel offered not only a glimpse into the past, but also the perfect spot from which I could submerge myself in the everyday goings of Stellenbosch and its people. This elegant boutique hotel consists of a collection of historical farmstead buildings that date back...
2025-04-0817 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 2: Seebamboes - A New Cape Town Restaurant on Harrington StreetSeebamboes is a brand-new restaurant on Harrington Street in Cape Town, adamant to restore Surf & Turf's bad rap. I sat down with chef-restaurateur, Anouchka Horn and Chef Adel Hughes to learn more about the inspiration behind this 16-seater restaurant. If you're looking for an eatery where nostalgia is the name of the game, this is it!
2025-04-0112 minSUITCASE & CHARDONNAYEpisode 1: Spier's Johan Jordaan is Chenin Blanc Master WinemakerSpier's Cellarmaster, Johan Jordaan recently received the award of Chenin Blanc Master Winemaker at the Master Winemaker 100 awards in Paris. I sit down with him in Spier's beautiful Soil Room, to find out more about the awards and his love for Chenin Blanc.Visit Spier's website here for more info on their beautiful new Soil Room, and to book a stay at their stunning new hotel: https://www.spier.co.za/
2025-03-2215 min