The Sunday Sizzle

Samantha Darsen chats to Dr. Darren Green, a passionate medical doctor and wellness advocate, breaks down diabetes, obesity, hypertension, these preventable diseases that are on the rise, impacting not just individual health but also straining families and healthcare. He practical tips on how to prevent them. Tune in to learn how small lifestyle changes can make a big difference!

Samantha Darsen chats to Dr. Tarryn Dent, a leading expert in animal health who shares expert advice to ensure your kitty’s well-being. She sheds light on the common health risks in cats, the signs you shouldn’t ignore and symptoms that often go unnoticed and simple steps to promote your pet’s health.

Samantha Darsen chats to Gaylene Diedericks, a soul coach, psychic medium, tarot reader and animal communicator. She reveals what the different zodiac signs have in store for people’s love life. Listen in to hear the sparks, surprises and heart-melting moments the universe has in store for you this Valentine’s month.

Samantha Darsen chats to Sharon Mmitsi, a Debt Counselor, about how to handle those awkward money conversations, spot financial green flags, and build a relationship that’s both emotionally and financially secure. Whether you’re dating, married or just thinking ahead, listen in, this is packed with tips to keep love and finances in harmony.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to Ritzy Singh, a self-taught multidisciplinary artist and creative entrepreneur, shares her journey of using art to express, inspire and connect. She reveals how creativity can shape people and inspire transformation.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to Lesley Waterkely who shares her inspiring work transforming discarded sports surfaces into safe, vibrant spaces for youth in the Cape Flats. Through Pitches for Peace and her innovative Amazeballs project. She is creating opportunities for young people to play, grow, belong and turning waste into hope and positive change.

Samantha Darsen chats to Diyajal Prakash, a passionate financial planner and emerging voice in the industry, shares her insights on how to manage, save, and invest money wisely. She emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and empowerment, helping listeners gain clarity and control over their financial journeys.

Samantha Darsen chats to Dr. Shaakira Abrahams, a seasoned medical affairs expert with extensive experience in infectious diseases and vaccines across Africa, sheds light on RSV, what it is, how it spreads and how parents can protect their little ones. She shares crucial insights into the symptoms to watch for, prevention strategies, and the importance of early intervention.

Samantha Darsen chats to veteran practitioner Aiden Lottering. With nearly two decades of experience, Aiden discusses how hypnosis can aid mental health, foster self-improvement and realize your full potential.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to Matshidiso Dibakoane, a student, emerging activist in honor of International Human Rights Day, we explore how South Africa’s young generation, especially Gen Z, is advocating for their rights. Matshidiso Dibakoane discusses the significance of youth activism, the importance of understanding rights and the responsibilities that come with advocating for change.

Feeling drained and overwhelmed? Koobeshen Naidoo chats to health and wellness coach Heidi Silcock who shares some practical strategies to maintain consistent energy, focus, and enthusiasm throughout the year. Learn how to break free from burnout patterns and thrive every day.  

Samantha Darsen chats to singer and songwriter Keziah Rebekah as she shares her journey of growth, perseverance and the joy of every milestone along the way.

Samantha Darsen chats to Prof. Monique Marks, a renowned social worker and health coach with international recognition. She discusses strategies to manage stress, maintain well-being and find balance during this busy time. 

Samantha Darsen chats to Neetu Chetty, a dedicated legal academic, social justice advocate who is committed to ending gender-based violence in South Africa. She discusses the lasting scars of abuse, the importance of restoring dignity and the power of speaking out and healing.

Samantha Darsen chats to an inspiring woman, Janice Benecke who shares her personal journey of surviving cancer and turning adversity into strength. she’s here to remind us that life’s challenges don’t define us, they refine us. Tune in to hear her powerful story of hope, courage, and the importance of early detection, as she brings hope and education to KwaZulu-Natal. 

Samantha Darsen chats Robin Sewlal, a media expert as we pay tribute to Zakia Ahmed Siddiqi, whose vibrant spirit and heartfelt voice left an indelible mark on Lotus FM and beyond. Robin Sewlal, a close friend shares his memories and insights into the life of a truly special individual who touched so many lives.

Samantha Darsen chats to Professor Brij Maharaj, geographer at UKZN and Deputy President of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha. He guides us through the significance of this milestone, the evolution of the community, and the powerful contributions Indian South Africans continue to make in shaping our nation.

 Samantha Darsen chats to Dr. Tarryn Dent, Business Unit Lead for Companion Animals, to help us understand what pet diabetes looks like, how to spot the early signs, and what treatment and management options exist. From diet to monitoring to treatment, she helps us understand how to give our animals the healthiest, happiest life possible.

Samantha Darsen chats to Shirley Reddy, a matriarch and spiritual soul who shares her powerful journey from a routine doctor’s visit to a cancer diagnosis that changed everything. Her story reminds us that resilience is not about avoiding struggle, it’s about rising, learning and living with purpose and peace.

 Samantha Darsen chats to Dr. Shiksha Ragunandan, Orthopaedic Surgeon with a passion for paediatric orthopaedics about simple ways to keep your skeleton strong, your joints flexible and your body moving freely. It’s all about taking small steps today for a stronger, more independent tomorrow.

Romeo Chonco chats to Shane Pillay, South African author, life coach and visionary in personal transformation. He shares his powerful 23-year journey from addiction to purpose. It’s a story of falling, rising and discovering the strength to start over. If you’ve ever felt like giving up, this episode will remind you that it’s never too late to begin again. 

Romeo Chonco chats to Varsha Rajput who shares her inspiring transition from vegetarian to vegan, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. It’s a conversation about compassion, conscious living and celebrating progress, not perfection.

Samantha Darsen chats to author, journalist and broadcaster David Williams as we celebrate Transport Month, we journey through South Africa’s fascinating railway history. From opulent presidential trains to the goods lines that kept the economy moving. Williams shares his deep knowledge, passion and perspective on the triumphs and trials of South Africa’s railway system, past and present.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to Megan Pentz-Kluyts, a leading dietitian and consultant for CANSA, who breaks down how food and health are closely linked. From the science behind everyday meals to how nutrition supports cancer prevention and recovery, Megan helps us understand why mindful eating matters more than ever, unpacking how what we eat impacts our risk of diseases and how small, smart food choices can help us live longer, healthier lives.

Samantha Darsen chats to Sheldon Wells, owner of Durban Safaris, shares how South Africa’s road trips are about more than scenery but how they’re about more than just travel, but about building connections, understanding different perspectives and creating lasting memories.  

 Samantha Darsen chats to Andries Els about his passion for creating authentic music that speaks to everyone. He talks about how he and brother make music and using music to connect people worldwide and shaping a unique musical journey.

Samantha Darsen chats to Peggie Mars, , a passionate advocate for child road safety and founder of Wheel Well to share some essential practical advice on how to stay safe while traveling with children. Her insights help parents navigate the challenges of travel, ensuring their adventures are not only memorable but also safe and worry-free.

Romeo Chonco chats to Shanal Balkaran, a notable advocate against Gender Based Violence ( GBV). They chat about the importance of standing together to end GBV, raise awareness and support each other.

Samantha Darsen chats to Vanessa Sekati, a seasoned cybersecurity professional and current Cyber Security Services Manager, explains common attacks like phishing, online banking fraud, identity theft and social media scams. She shares essential advice on how to defend your personal information from scams and fraud.

Samantha Darsen chats to Anivesh Singh, a seasoned publisher and advocate for marginalized communities. With a career spanning three decades and over 200 books published, he discusses how storytelling connects us to our roots, shapes our culture and helps us understand who we are.

Samantha Darsen chats to storyteller Ziyaad Ally Khan, who emphasizes why storytelling is a powerful tradition that connects us to our roots. Also reflects on how our grandparents’ tales carry lessons, memories and the soul of our heritage. 

Samantha Darsen chats to Prishen Sivanarain, known as The Vegetarian Bodybuilder, shares his inspiring story of choosing vegetarianism at 13 and carving out a successful international bodybuilding career.

Samantha Darsen chats to Zahra Maharaj, a passionate content creator deeply rooted in South African culture. She talks about her love for Indian music and traditions and how following her passions has shaped her life.

Samantha Darsen chats to the KZN SAPS Spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda to shed light on the fight against gender-based violence. He shares some insights about the steps being taken to address GBV, the difficulties faced by law enforcement and how we can all help create safer environments for women and children. It’s an important discussion about protecting our communities.

Samantha Darsen chats to Boitumelo Mhlongo who is a third-year fashion student. Now, she’s working on her final year range and preparing to launch her own fashion brand. She is proof that young women are transforming fashion with fresh ideas and fearless creativity. Listen to her story, her passion, love and perseverance.

Samantha Darsen chats to Anand Naicker who is the chief referee in road running races. He is a race coordinator for Eye Can Walk from 5 consecutive years. They chat about the upcoming OB as The Sunday Sizzle will be broadcasting live from the "Eye Can Walk" campaign hosted by the KZN Blind and Deaf Society on the 24th of August 2025. 

Samantha Darsen chats Ahmed Essa who is known as Papa Essa. He started his TikTok page in 2022 as a hobby after some persuasion by his son and it grew from there. We chat to him about creating mouthwatering food content and sharing their skills with us. 

Samantha Darsen chats Rishta Dhurgaduth-Rampersad who started dancing at age 6, she performed onstage, trained in India and graduated in classical Indian dance. We celebrate how every woman brings her own strength and creativity to the world. 

Samantha Darsen chats to Husna Hoosen who is the author of Unbroken: My Journey Through Adversity and Triumph, a memoir detailing her experiences with a rare birth defect, lifelong medical and mental health challenges, bullying and trauma.

Samantha Darsen chats to Sadika Adam who has been in the music industry for over 40 years and started singing with her Dad. She is currently working on her new album. She talks about her journey and her upcoming album.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to Kyle Deutsch who is a singer, producer and songwriter recognised for significant contributions to the music industry. They chat about his experiences, career and upcoming projects.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to lawyer Bongisipho Malinga to shed light on the legal resources and procedures that can help survivors of GBV. He shares the vital steps women and survivors can take to protect themselves and raise  awareness to end GBV.

Samantha Darsen chats to Dumisani Tshabalala, the Head of Academics at Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls. He talks about the importance of equipping the youth, especially young women, with STEM skills.

Samantha Darsen chats with Sakhile Gumede who is the special projects and community engagement officer at the Durban International Film Festival. They discuss how films and movies tell Mandela’s inspiring story and how remembering Mandela is about celebrating hope and resilience.

In honor of Mandela Month, Samantha Darsen chats to Warona Seane who is a distinguished South African theatre director. They discuss how cinema has captured Mandela’s legacy, the stories they tell and the impact these stories have on future generations.

Samantha Darsen chats to Rekha Singh who is a chartered accountant, yoga teacher and of course, Mrs KZN. She chats about her inspiring journey and celebrate her accomplishments.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to Dr Liza Street who is a qualified paediatrician with over 10 years of experience. Dr Street talks about why early mental health screening is vital for teenagers. She shares tips to learn how to identify the signs, common barriers and how early detection can save lives.

Koobeshen Naidoo chats to Verne Harris who is an executive consultant at the Nelson Mandela Foundation. He was Mandela’s archivist from 2004 to 2013. They chat about iconic films about Madiba. They discuss how these movies made about Mandela’s life captured his resilience, leadership and unwavering commitment to justice. 

Samantha Darsen chats to Sibusiso ‘Mash’ Mashiloane who is a pianist, composer and academic whose work fuses deep cultural memory with jazz innovation. He holds a PhD in music, a Cum Laude graduate with a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance. He chats about his journey and love for music.

Samantha Darsen chats to Tebogo Ramadiro who is the mental health advocate and substance abuse coordinator at South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) They chat about how the youth is quietly turning to drugs and alcohol and how we can work together and raise awareness.