In 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 us a behind-the-scenes look at how Brave Kids was born, why courage and kindness matter more than ever, and what readers can expect from the newest volume of short stories designed to uplift, educate and inspire young minds.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, storyteller or simply someone who believes in the power of children’s literature, this episode will leave you feeling hopeful, empowered and ready to raise a generation of world-changers.
Topics Kelly and I cover in our conversation:
Why brave storytelling matters
The global reach of Brave Kids
How short stories can build emotional resilience in kids
The creative process behind writing and illustrating for children
What to expect from Brave Kids, Volume 3
Tune in for a beautiful, story-rich conversation that will reignite your love for books and the brave little readers they’re written for.
Find more information about the latest addition to the Brave Kids Series here: https://www.kjkaschula.com/
Find SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/
*Because of the fact that Kelly was in France during the time of the interview, this episode was recorded via Zoom. Hence, the sound quality might not always be 100%.
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
Having 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
When 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 the wildlife film school's students as they neared the end of their course. We also got to learn some valuable filming tips along the way and can highly recommend staying at the beautiful lodge, whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a traveller in search of a different kind of safari.
https://toowild.co/amaya/
Today, 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 or two of my bucket list destinations…
More information on the destinations mentioned in this podcast in the links below:
- 5 Reasons why TAU Game Lodge boasts the best family safari
- A luxury safari with kids: Recharging at TAU
- Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge
- Monwana
- Wine in the Wildnerness - Samara Karoo Reserve
- Wildehondekloof Game Reserve
Also read more about De Zeekoe Guest Farm, also part of Cape Country Routes.
We’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.
#SuitcaseAndChardonnay #SouthAfricanTalent #PodcastInterview #FoodEntrepreneurs #CulinaryCreatives #VuurEnVlam #BraaiLegends #FoodCulture #SouthAfricanFlavours #SlowFoodMovement #BraaiInspo
We 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 NOTES
GIVEAWAY:
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 @suitcaseandchardonnay and find the giveaway post.
2. In the comments section, give the wine-inspired image a catchy caption.
3. Be sure to also add the hashtag #SuitcaseAndChardonnay after your caption and,
4. Tag a friend whom you’d like to take for lunch.
The competition closes on 31 May 2025 and is valid to South African residents only. Travel costs to Rust en Vrede will be for your own account. Good luck!
WINE LINKS:
Learn more about Assyrtiko on www.wine-searcher.com
Learn more about Retsina on www.wine-searcher.com
OTHER WINES:
- Le Riche: www.leriche.co.za
- Illimis Cinsault: illimiswines.com
- Gabriëlskloof: gabrielskloof.co.za
- Stellenrust: www.stellenrust.co.za
- Stellenzicht: stellenzicht.com
- Allée Bleue: shop.alleebleue.co.za
- Marsanne / Rozanne blends: wineparadigm.com
MOSES' PERSONAL FAVOURITES:
Moses’ favourite wine to sip in his slippers - De Wetshof Bon Vallon: dewetshof.com
Moses’ favourite wine for fireside sipping – Saronsberg Provenance: saronsbergshop.com
Wines under R200 to stock up on, according to Moses:
1. Stellenzicht Cabernet Sauvignon: stellenzicht.com
2. Steenberg: steenbergfarm.com
3. Backsberg: www.backsberg.co.za
4. Diemersdal: diemersdal.co.za
Check out Steenberg’s new labels, which were recently launched, here:
https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/stunning-luxe-new-wine-labels-for-steenberg/
Learn more about Cinsault (and Pinot Noir) here:
https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/5-ways-to-better-understand-cinsaut-and-pinot-noir/
Don’t forget to check out the blog for an autumn wine roundup, easy pairing ideas, and even outfit inspiration for your next vineyard visit. You can find it all on www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za.
Subscribe, rate and share this episode with your fellow wine lovers. And as always, sip slow, travel often, and dress like you mean it.
My 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 end of this podcast and check out the link below:
https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/win-brianna-wiests-book-the-mountain-is-you-and-more/
Follow Suitcase & Chardonnay and Amanda Wiggill on Instagram:
@suitcaseandchardonnay
@amanda_wiggill
Visit 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. Valid for South Africans only.
Visit https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/talks/ to discover the full menu of topics and upcoming events and book me for a motivational talk at your next event, team day or personal transformation.
Let me know what stood out for you by sending a DM on @suitcaseandchardonnay or commenting below.
Have any suggestions for an upcoming podcast on life, travel, fashion, food or wine? Send an email to hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za or DM me on Instagram @suitcaseandchardonnay: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/
Subscribe to Suitcase & Chardonnay’s newsletter to stay in the loop: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/
I 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 to the early 1900s. They have been beautifully restored and now offer charming accommodation just across the road from the famous South African rugby school, Paul Roos.
The farm buildings’ history is connected to early wine and fruit farms of none other than the well-known wine farms, Vredenburg and Lanzerac, and the architecture is linked to Sit Herbert Baker – a famous English architect and dominant force in South African architecture. In essence, Southern Sun De Wagen consists of three country houses – the Wagenhuis, the Kuyperhuis and the Roeshuis – and together the spaces offer a total of 22 rooms. The Wagenhuis was my sanctuary for to nights, located underneath an enormous tree, offering ample space and a peaceful setting to wind down after a busy day of exploring.
Of course, De Volkskombuis also deserves a mention. This is where Southern Sun de Wagen’s guests can enjoy breakfast, which is included in the stay. Also a Sir Herbert Baker building, the warm atmosphere of this restaurant will see me returning time and again. Any other meals are for your own account, but they have a lovely garden for exceptional al fresco dining, and the indoor seating is just as magical with high ceilings and immaculate wooden beams making for a typical Cape Dutch setting with true South African flavours coming through from the kitchen. They also have private dining rooms for more intimate settings or meetings and a fair wine list for those who want to pair their meals with a glass of wine from the region. There are, however, not many options by the glass, so perhaps come prepared to pay for a bottle of wine instead of wine by the glass. Their beetroot salad is divine, and I can recommend their wood fired pizzas too – especially for dinner in the garden. For those who want to indulge in some truly South African cuisine, I would recommend choosing an option from the traditional boerekos section in the menu. Their Boland Bobotie is to die for. Be sure to arrive hungry, though, as the portions are quite generous.
Stellenbosch on Foot was also one of the highlights of my visit to the City of Oaks. Visit Stellenbosch invited me to attend the historical tour of Stellenbosch – a truly insightful walking tour through town, highlighting some of the most profound historical happenings and the most beautiful historical buildings – all with interesting stories to tell.
I sat down with general manager, Abel Pienaar, to learn more about the hotel and its offerings, as well as its comeback after the floods not too long ago. This is the full interview.
Links:
https://www.southernsun.com/southern-sun-de-wagen
https://www.visitstellenbosch.org/
https://stellenboschonfoot.co.za/
Seebamboes 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!
Spier'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/
