Claim OwnershipWhat's Next with Aki Anastasiou
Subscribed: 20Played: 183
Subscribe
© All rights reserved
Description
What’s Next with Aki Anastasiou is South Africa’s most popular technology show. The who’s who of South Africa’s technology and business world are interviewed on the show.
410 Episodes
Reverse
Healthbridge founder, chairman, and Chief Innovation Officer Gerrie van Zyl joins Business Talk to discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare and why South Africa is well positioned to innovate in the sector. Speaking from Atlanta’s Tech Square, one of the world’s leading AI hubs, he explains how his team uses global innovation insights to build solutions for South Africa’s healthcare system, while highlighting the country’s growing AI creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
The conversation explores how AI can reduce administrative burdens for doctors, unlock valuable healthcare data responsibly, and expand access to quality care across South Africa. Gerrie also shares why healthcare is one of the most powerful levers for economic development, how AI could dramatically improve efficiency and patient outcomes, and why entrepreneurs and developers should see healthcare as one of the most exciting innovation opportunities of the next decade.
Hylton Kallner, CEO of Discovery Bank, joins the show to discuss the bank’s strong interim results and the strategy driving its rapid growth. With client numbers, deposits, and revenue all rising sharply, Kallner explains how Discovery Bank’s shared value model, full-service digital banking platform, and broader Discovery ecosystem are helping attract new customers and deepen engagement with existing ones.
The conversation also explores Discovery Bank’s vision of becoming a “super bank” by combining advanced digital banking, lifestyle integration, and data-driven personalization. Kallner shares how artificial intelligence, powerful security systems, and a scalable technology platform are enabling the bank to improve customer experience, strengthen fraud protection, and continue its ambitious growth trajectory.
In this episode of What’s Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Jason Oehley, Regional Sales Manager at Arctic Wolf, about why cyber security remains the number one risk facing businesses today. With South Africa ranked among the most targeted countries globally, Jason unpacks the latest threat trends, including the rise of data extortion, the continued impact of ransomware, and how attackers are increasingly “logging in” rather than breaking in. He also explains how AI is accelerating both cyber crime and cyber defense, forcing organizations to rethink how they approach resilience.
The conversation explores why cyber security is shifting from a purely technical issue to a board-level financial discussion. Jason breaks down the importance of understanding cyber risk, building continuous security improvements, and balancing prevention with recovery through cyber insurance and warranties. For businesses of any size, the key takeaway is clear: cyber security is no longer just about protection — it’s about resilience, measurable risk reduction, and being financially prepared for when an incident occurs.
In this episode of What’s Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Gregory Rood, CEO of Sigfox South Africa, about the powerful but often invisible role Sigfox plays in the Internet of Things ecosystem. As a zero-G network built for ultra-low power, long-range connectivity, Sigfox enables devices to operate for years on battery while collecting and transmitting critical data. From monitoring water levels and tracking assets to managing cold-chain medicine and supporting agriculture, the technology quietly powers thousands of real-world applications across South Africa.
Gregory explains how Sigfox’s nationwide network, recent infrastructure upgrades, and strong channel partner ecosystem are unlocking affordable IoT solutions for businesses of all sizes. The conversation also highlights impactful use cases in rural areas, including medical supply monitoring, wildlife safety, and water management, as well as opportunities for entrepreneurs to build locally relevant solutions. It’s a compelling look at how connected data is driving efficiency, resilience, and innovation across industries.
In this episode, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Andre Nepgen, CEO of Discovery Green, to unpack the rapidly evolving renewable energy landscape in South Africa. Andre explains how Discovery Green procures large-scale wind and solar projects and wheels that clean energy to businesses, helping them reduce costs, lock in long-term price certainty, and lower carbon footprints. With electricity prices historically rising well above inflation, renewable energy is becoming a strategic advantage for companies looking to manage risk and stay competitive.
The discussion covers why early adoption of long-term renewable PPAs is becoming urgent, how trader-led aggregation models are reducing risk compared to traditional one-to-one agreements, and why grid capacity constraints could soon limit access to new projects. They also explore the impact of AI-driven energy demand, shifting market regulations, rising input costs for solar panels, and South Africa’s goal of reaching 40% renewable energy by 2030. If your business spends significantly on electricity, this conversation highlights why now is the time to rethink your energy strategy.
In this episode of What’s Next, host Aki Anastasiou is joined by Justin Hume, Samsung South Africa’s Vice President of Mobile Experience, to unpack the launch of the new Galaxy S26 range and what Samsung’s latest AI upgrades mean for everyday users. They explore Samsung’s on-device AI approach, the shift toward agentic AI assistants that work across apps, and the industry-first privacy display on the S26 Ultra designed to protect sensitive information in real time.
Justin also highlights key camera improvements, Knox-powered security, South African availability and pre-order deals, and how the new Galaxy Buds 4 fit into a more intelligent, connected AI lifestyle.
In this episode, we sit down with Aliyah Allie, Executive Head at X, bigly labs by Dis-Chem, to explore how Dis-Chem is transforming from a traditional pharmacy retailer into a fully integrated health authority. Aliyah unpacks the role of Executive Head at X, bigly labs as Dis-Chem’s innovation hub, driving progress across data, digital platforms, automation, and customer-centric design to improve healthcare access and affordability in South Africa.
The discussion dives into the real structural barriers limiting healthcare access, the importance of partnerships between the private sector, government, and fintech, and how technology, data, and AI can be used responsibly without widening inequality. From simplifying customer journeys and modernising loyalty and insurance models to building trust through secure digital experiences, this conversation offers a forward-looking view of preventative, accessible, and human-centred healthcare.
RAM, SSDs, GPUs, CPUs — the tech building blocks behind everything from laptops to media players — are getting harder to source and more expensive by the week. On What’s Next, host Aki Anastasiou is joined by Craig Nowitz (CEO) and Ryan Martyn (Co-founder, Sales & Marketing Director) from Syntech Distribution to unpack what’s really behind the supply crunch — and why it’s not a “COVID-style” blip. They explain how hyperscalers racing to build AI infrastructure are soaking up global capacity, pushing manufacturers toward higher-margin enterprise memory, and triggering sharp price increases that filter straight into South Africa’s consumer and corporate IT budgets.
The conversation also gets practical: what procurement teams should prioritise in 2026, why Windows 11 hardware readiness has become a security issue, and how businesses can adapt by moving faster, planning smarter, and considering alternative hardware choices. If you’re responsible for IT upgrades — or you’re wondering whether to buy now or wait — this episode lays out the market reality and the smartest moves to avoid getting caught out.
South Africa’s energy crisis isn’t just about keeping the lights on — it’s about cost, strategy, and long-term competitiveness. This podcast cuts through the noise to explain how power, policy, and private innovation are reshaping business in real time.
Hosted by Aki Anastasiou, the show is built for business leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers who need clarity on complex issues like renewable energy, electricity pricing, energy trading, sustainability, and infrastructure. It’s not for casual commentary or recycled headlines — it’s for people responsible for real decisions and real balance sheets.
Through direct conversations with industry leaders such as David McDonald, CEO at SolarAfrica, the podcast unpacks how solar, wheeling, energy trading, and evolving market structures actually work, what they cost, and where the risks and opportunities lie. Expect grounded insight, commercial realism, and clear explanations rooted in South African and global business realities.
If you want perspective instead of panic, and insight you can apply, this is where you start. Follow the show and listen regularly to stay ahead of the energy and business curve.
In this episode of What’s Next, Precious Nduli, Chief Commercial Officer at Discovery Insure, joins Aki Anastasiou to unpack how technology, telematics, and data-driven insights are transforming the insurance landscape. She explains how Discovery Insure incentivizes safer driving through real-time behaviour tracking, fuel rewards, and innovative features like impact alerts and sleep-related risk analysis. Precious also highlights how AI-powered tools, including the Advanced Driving Instructor, provide personalised coaching to help drivers improve behind the wheel.
The discussion explores Discovery Insure’s seamless integration with Discovery Bank, enabling clients to obtain and activate car insurance instantly in-app. Precious shares compelling statistics on how Vitality Drive reduces accident risk and explains how the company is extending its impact beyond its customer base through initiatives such as the Pothole Patrol and Safe Journeys to School. She offers a clear view of how technology and AI are shaping the future of insurance and helping build a nation of safer, more responsible drivers.
In this episode of What’s Next, Nicolaas Hanekom, Sales Lead for Digital Air Solutions at Samsung South Africa, joins Aki Anastasiou to unpack how consumer expectations around home air conditioning have transformed in recent years. Nicolaas explains why air conditioners have become essential, all-year appliances focused on comfort, efficiency, and seamless integration within the modern smart home. He highlights Samsung’s leading technologies, including AI-driven temperature optimization, and full SmartThings connectivity, which allow users to control, monitor, and automate their climate with ease.
Nicolaas also discusses the growing importance of indoor air quality, outlining how Samsung’s multilayer filtration helps remove bacteria, pollen, and impurities from the environment. He breaks down the efficiency benefits of Samsung’s advanced inverter technology and how AI and SmartThings insights help households reduce energy consumption while enhancing comfort. With a focus on correct installation, long-term reliability, and sleek design, Samsung’s latest air conditioners deliver powerful performance and meaningful savings for South African homes.
In this episode of What’s Next, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Hector Beyers, CEO and founder of Codehesion, to unpack the remarkable growth of his software development company. Beyers shares how his passion for computer engineering and early leadership experience shaped his entrepreneurial journey, leading him to build a business focused on high-quality custom software, strong development processes, and a culture of delivery. From starting alone in 2018, Codehesion has grown into a 50-strong team serving clients across the globe.
Beyers also explores the evolving role of AI in software development, the importance of scalable and maintainable code, and the challenges of recruiting top talent. He highlights how Codehesion helps businesses modernize, streamline operations, and rescue struggling software projects through expert guidance and disciplined processes. This insightful conversation reveals what it takes to build world-class technology and stay competitive in a rapidly shifting digital landscape.
In this episode of What’s Next, Amantha Naidoo, Managing Executive at NTT DATA South Africa, joins Aki Anastasiou to discuss her career journey and the forces shaping modern transformation. She shares how her background in engineering, consulting and culture change led her to NTT DATA, and why timing, purpose and the desire to lead meaningful change made this the right step in her career. Amantha highlights the critical ingredients of successful transformation, including strong leadership, clear direction and building a culture that can adapt to rapid shifts in technology and business.
Amantha also explores the real impact of AI across industries, the challenges of moving from experimentation to large-scale value, and why foundational technology, data readiness and trust are essential. She explains what differentiates NTT DATA in a competitive market, from its full-stack capabilities to its AI smart agent ecosystem, and outlines the company’s strategic priorities in South Africa. From cybersecurity to customer experience to societal upliftment through education, she offers insight into how NTT DATA is preparing organisations for the next wave of technological evolution.
In this conversation, Discovery Bank CEO Hylton Kallner unpacks the remarkable growth of South Africa’s fastest-growing bank and the shared-value model powering its success. He explains how Discovery Bank’s full-service digital approach, industry-leading security, seamless ecosystem integration and customer-first design have reshaped the banking experience for nearly one and a half million clients. From crypto investing with Luno to AI-driven fraud protection and effortless insurance activation, Hylton highlights the innovations redefining modern finance.
He also shares insight into Discovery Bank’s expanding rewards ecosystem, new partnerships, and the momentum behind its award-winning service. With breakthroughs in digital behaviour analysis, lifestyle-linked benefits and a rapidly growing client base, Hylton outlines how the bank is positioning itself at the center of people’s financial lives—today and over the next five years.
This episode of What’s Next brings together financial literacy advocate and author Nicolette Mashile and Yande Nomvete, Africa Operations Manager at Binance, for an in-depth discussion on crypto adoption in South Africa. They unpack the success of The Getting Crypto Show, the growing appetite for digital assets on the continent, and why education remains the most important tool for avoiding scams and navigating this emerging space with confidence.
The conversation also explores how Binance is strengthening user protection from day one, the role of crypto in everyday life, and how South Africans can safely begin their investment journey. From platform security to cross-border payments and practical use cases like buying groceries, this episode highlights how cryptocurrency is becoming more accessible, more useful, and more aligned with real financial needs.
In this episode of What’s Next, Aki Anastasiou is joined by a panel of experts to unpack the Africa Digital Assets Report 2025. The discussion features Rob Downes, Head of Digital Assets at Absa Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB); Juanetta Furusa-Matelakengisa, Head of Digital Product, Carbon Banking at Absa CIB; and Zanele Thembisile Baloyi, Senior Researcher at Krutham. Together, they explore why the report was commissioned, how the research was conducted across several African markets, and what it reveals about digital asset adoption among consumers and businesses.
The conversation highlights key themes such as the public’s trust in traditional banks, the need for clearer regulatory frameworks, and the growing demand for education around digital assets. The guests also examine South Africa’s unique position compared to neighboring markets, insights from Kenya’s advanced mobile-money environment, and how Absa plans to apply these findings through new digital asset solutions and educational initiatives. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the emerging digital finance landscape across Africa.
In this episode of What’s Next, we speak with Nick Yarham, Head of Operations at TP-Link South Africa, following the company’s remarkable achievement of winning the MyBroadband Award for Best Networking Brand for the second year in a row. Nick shares what this recognition means for the team, why South Africans continue to trust TP-Link, and how the brand focuses on solving real-world connectivity challenges—from eliminating dead zones to delivering reliable, secure, and easy-to-use networking solutions for homes and businesses.
Nick also discusses how TP-Link is navigating South Africa’s tough economic climate through strong partnerships, fair pricing, and a commitment to supporting local businesses and consumers. He explores the rapid rise of smart homes, TP-Link’s expanding ecosystem of connected devices, and the company’s vision for innovation, including advancements in Wi-Fi technology and integrated B2B solutions. He ends with a message of gratitude and optimism, spotlighting TP-Link’s investment in South Africa’s future and its growing opportunities for local talent.
In this episode of What's Next, we sit down with Cliff de Wit, Group Chief Innovation Officer at Accelera Digital Group, to unpack the rapid acceleration of AI and the growing readiness gap facing modern organisations. Cliff reflects on his journey from Microsoft to leading large-scale technology initiatives and now helping businesses across Africa and beyond adapt to a world where AI is reshaping every role, workflow and industry. He explains why many companies struggle to adopt AI effectively, how fear and poor change management hold teams back, and why both users and creators of AI must develop new capabilities quickly.
Cliff also breaks down how Accelera Digital Group helps organisations bridge this gap—starting with identifying high-impact problems, modernising data foundations, and then building practical AI solutions that drive measurable value. This conversation is a must-watch for leaders preparing their businesses for the next era of intelligent technology.
In this episode of What’s Next, we speak with Sharon Leong, Chief Executive Officer at Thompsons Travel, about how corporate travel has transformed and what modern businesses need to prioritise heading into 2026. Sharon reflects on the company’s 40-year legacy and explains how technology, mobile tools and smart booking systems are reshaping business travel—making it faster, more seamless and more personalised than ever before. She also highlights the growing importance of traveller wellness, from smarter hotel choices to thoughtful travel policies that help employees stay rested, productive and safe on the road.
Sharon dives into how Thompsons Travel is using real-time communication, global tracking tools and 24/7 personalised support to strengthen duty of care and ensure travellers are never alone when disruptions arise. She also shares insights into rising African business destinations, the surge in sustainability-focused travel decisions and the crucial role AI will play in enhancing—not replacing—the human expertise of travel consultants. A must-watch for organisations looking to refine their corporate travel strategy for the future.
Medshield’s Chief Operating Officer, Angela Blackburn, joins us to give more detail on Medshield’s 2026 product and benefit enhancements and what members can expect in the year ahead. From a lower-than-average contribution increase to a strengthened GCR rating and unlimited hospital access across all plans, Medshield is focused on value, stability, and affordability during a time when healthcare costs continue to rise.
Angela also highlights major benefit enhancements, including revamped optical cover, expanded preventative care, improved diabetic support, annual mammograms, PSA screenings, and innovative virtual GP services. With a strong emphasis on member education, accessibility and human-centered service, Medshield aims to help members stay healthier while managing long-term costs more effectively.
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States