SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

Ever 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:- Leandie du Randt’s journey in - or rather, beyond - the South African film and entertainment industry- The power of saying yes to new chapters and no to what no longer serves you- Travel as therapy: what Leandie’s learned about herself on the road- Finding comfort in family, fun and meaningful conversations- How authenticity and courage have shaped her career and personal lifeWhether you’re seeking travel inspiration, lifestyle balance or an honest take on personal growth, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to live with intention - one beautiful choice at a time.Listen to more episodes of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY — where lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine meet meaningful storytelling.Follow Leandie du Randt: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leandiedurandt/Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/Website: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/

Are 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 the same. From screen-free travel experiences to powerful off-the-grid retreats in South Africa, Julie shows us how slowing down can become a practice of joy, self-discovery, and connection.Whether you’re ready for a five-day Karoo slow travel inventure or a shorter introspective travel experience in the city, there’s something for everyone who longs to venture inward, live mindfully, and discover the richness of the present moment.Together, we explore:• A new, off-the-grid retreat in the Karoo, South Africa, designed for deep self-reflection and stillness.• How to balance a busy city lifestyle with mindful travel and intentional slow living practices.• Tips on creating slow corners in your home to cultivate everyday calm.This is more than travel – it’s a digital detox retreat in South Africa, an invitation to reconnect with yourself, and a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful journey is the one within.Follow Inventure: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinventureFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576632433875 Website: https://theinventure.com/ SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Get email updates: https://suitcaseandchardonnay.us18.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=c9d6afb9bba92ba38d584f594&id=6acd869927 Learn more about your ad choices: hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

Executive 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 conversation with him, with a little bit of background noise from SMOKE Restaurant peppered throughout to add some flavour…

Today 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 Competition’s Communicator of the Year. He has judged wines in every corner of the world, co-chairs the International Wine Challenge and is widely respected for his sharp, witty and sometimes controversial takes on the industry.It’s a true honour to welcome him to the podcast today, to talk about wine, travel, storytelling and the global connections that flow from a single glass.Find his website here.Follow him on Facebook or Instagram.Visit the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog here.And follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on: InstagramFacebookPinterestWant to work together? Email: hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

In 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 Cap Classique and continuously pursues the perfect bubble - has the ideal bubbly for celebrations! Find Graham Beck here. Follow Graham Beck on Instagram Follow Graham Beck on FacebookVisit the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog here.Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on Instagram.Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on Facebook.Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on Pinterest. For more information about SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY's year-end packages, email: hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

In 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 lessons we learn from it beautifully. Soon to be launched, The King's Race is a wonderful gift for those Christmas stockings (yes, we're talking Christmas already!) and a great opportunity for parents and children to spend quality time together.Under the lifestyle side of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY brand, you would have noticed that I am very serious about approaching life at a slower pace and teaching (and allowing) your children to do the same. Books can make this process very easy and The King's Race definitely deserves a spot in your family's children's book collection. It's right up there with books like The Little Prince, teaching lessons through storytelling and subtly opening up conversations around topics like kindness, hardship, friendship and grit.To learn more about Dr. Eyal Levit, visit levitdermatology.com or follow him on Instagram:  ⁨@levitdermatology1939⁩  Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on: Instagram: @suitcaseandchardonnay Facebook Pinterestand SUBSCRIBE to the weekly newsletter and read the blog here.

Welcome 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 into what makes Hyde Hotel Rosebank a must-visit destination for business and leisure travelers, but also for families, and we explore how the rebrand is redefining boutique accommodation in Rosebank. Listen out for insider details on special offers, dining highlights and lifestyle experiences that make this hotel stand out in Johannesburg’s competitive hospitality scene.Whether you’re planning a city staycation in Johannesburg, a business trip in Rosebank or simply looking for unique food and wine experiences in Joburg, this conversation will give you plenty of reasons to add Hyde Hotel Rosebank to your travel list.Visit Hyde Hotel Rosebank's website here.Read more about our family's experience at Hyde Hotel Rosebank here.Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on: InstagramFacebookPinterestand, SUBSCRIBE to the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY newsletter.

Welcome 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 you’re watching on YouTube or Spotify, you’ll notice a softer, calmer side of me: no make-up, my favourite blush H&M cardigan and that unmistakable post-spa glow after a blissful body scrub and massage. This episode is extra special, not just because of the tranquil setting, but because it marks a milestone 20th episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast. 🥂Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more conversations on intentional living, travel, fashion, food, wine and wellness.📩 Join the community by signing up for the newsletter here.🌍 Explore the Saxon Spa Steyn City and their incredible treatments here. 💻 Dive into more lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine stories on the blog.📲 Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.Cheers to intentional living and celebrating life’s layered luxuries!

In 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 ever in 2026.From surfing Mavericks in California, to paddling solo across the Atlantic, to becoming the first person to wing foil across the Pacific, Chris’ life is filled with record-breaking achievements. But what truly inspires is his mindset - his ability to face adversity, pivot when needed and transform challenges into opportunities for growth and purpose.In our conversation, we explore:The lessons Chris has learned from the ocean about resilience, courage and adaptability.Why postponing the TransCat Expedition was an act of strength, not defeat.The powerful link between adventure, innovation and ocean conservation.How to reframe life’s obstacles into opportunities for greater impact.This episode isn’t just about sailing or records - it’s about perspective, resilience and choosing to live bravely.Learn more about Chris Bertish and the TransCat Expedition: chrisbertish.com Follow Chris on Instagram: @chrisbertishFollow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY for more inspiring stories: www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

Today'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 redefined the path! And, today she’s here to speak truth, shed light and ignite that soul-level potential that exists in every single one of us.Whether you’re craving deeper alignment, bold reinvention or simply a new way of seeing your own story - you’re going to want to lean in for this one…Featured on this podcast episode: Dana GrantThe Dana Grant ShowSUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

If 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 known in the industry as Chiefs Tented Camps. We uncover the magic behind a camp that is erected, like clockwork, just once a year - set against the thunderous beauty of wildflowers that perform only for those who time it just right.For more information, visit their website. Also, follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on...InstagramPinterestOr visit the blog

In 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 Karoo’s rich cultural and agricultural landscape.We talk slow fashion, creative process, design that tells a story, and what it really means to create with intention. So, pour a glass of red, snuggle into your favourite wool layer, and let’s dive into the textured world of Wool World.Links to all mentioned in this episode: Karoo Winter Wool FestivalViviers StudioHoven DesignSUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

*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 Restaurant for this episode’s conversation with Shoni Makhari, one of the estate’s directors, I was instantly transported to the Seychelles’ capital, Mahe. While there is no ocean at this peaceful estate near Johannesburg, there certainly is enough water to give it a similar feel and the incredible calmness of the environment I stepped into at this family-friendly lifestyle estate was magical. In this episode, Shoni and I step into the gates of this estate - one of South Africa’s more established lifestyle estates - not just to find out about its offering and the benefits of living in a South African estate, but also to explore why choosing a modern estate lifestyle like this might be one of the most meaningful decisions for those craving a richer, more connected, slow lifestyle.Visit Pecanwood Estate's website here: https://pecanwood.co.za/Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pecanwood_golf_estate/Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PecanwoodEstateCheck out the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog on https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnayFind SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

Today’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 not just the way we see the world, but the way we see each other and our family.

Wondering 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 textures, tones, layering and accessories• How to elevate your winter look with wool, mohair, and other natural fibres• Upcoming talk details for the Karoo Winter Wool FestivalMentioned in This Episode:• SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za• Follow on Instagram: @suitcaseandchardonnay• Book tickets to the Karoo Winter Wool Festival talks: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/310029-2025-karoo-winter-wool-festival/#/• Subscribe to the podcast for weekly fashion, travel, food, wine & lifestyle content

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 mattersThe global reach of Brave KidsHow short stories can build emotional resilience in kidsThe creative process behind writing and illustrating for childrenWhat to expect from Brave Kids, Volume 3Tune 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: - Safari Plains- TAU Game Lodge- 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- Nkasa Linyanti - Samara Karoo Reserve- Wine in the Wildnerness - Samara Karoo Reserve- De Hoop Collection- Wildehondekloof Game ReserveAlso read more about De Zeekoe Guest Farm, also part of Cape Country Routes.