the breakthrough sessions

s3 e8: Rorisang Mabogoane | navigating ageism in the workplace | managing your health in corporate

In this episode, I sit down with Rorisang Mabogoane, a dynamic young professional who made the bold leap from strategy consulting into a managerial role in banking — all before turning 25. But her journey wasn’t without obstacles. From navigating ageism in corporate spaces to battling health challenges like COVID-19 and scoliosis, Rorisang’s story is one of unwavering resilience, faith, and purpose. She opens up about: - Breaking barriers as a young manager in a high-stakes industry - The toll that chronic illness and recovery took on her personal and professional life - The role that her faith in God played in holding everything together For more on Rorisang's journey, follow her on her socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rorimabogoane?igsh=eXN6MjVtd3JqMG42 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rorimabogoane?_t=ZM-8wyP3pYVaEA&_r=1 Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rorimabogoane?si=s_bozSHqU-x61Qxg Press play and be inspired by a story where grace meets ambition and where setbacks make way for breakthroughs.

s3e7: Isabella Makhura | the plight of unemployment | living with disability | struggling with faith

In South Africa, 60% of youth are currently unemployed (as of April 2025, the recording of this episode). In this deeply personal episode, I sit down with Isabella Makhura, a bright young lawyer and social media voice of encouragement, who opens up about the silent battles so many face behind closed doors. Isabella shares her journey of navigating unemployment after completing her law degree and articles, and how this season tested more than just her patience — it tested her identity, her faith, and her emotional strength. She reminds us that being unemployed does not mean being unworthy. Together, we unpack: * The emotional and spiritual weight of waiting for a breakthrough * The financial reality of being without work * The power of vulnerability, purpose, and redefining success in your own time This isn’t just a story about jobs. It’s about faith in the waiting, and the courage it takes to keep showing up when life doesn’t go according to plan. For more on Isabella's story, follow her on her socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabella-makhura-437048160?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isabellamakhura?igsh=MXZ3YXQyNmhpN3htbA== Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@isabellamakhura?_t=ZM-8wNuGW4n91T&_r=1

s3 e6: blast from the past | the silver linings episode

original air date: 25 September 2020 In this pulled-from-the-vault episode, I reflect on a word that’s been my anchor for over 13 years: Excelsior—Latin for "ever upward." It’s more than a motto; it’s a mindset. Inspired by The Silver Linings Playbook and its powerful reminder that “if you stay positive, you have a shot at a silver lining,” this episode explores how I’ve used Excelsior to reframe pain, loss, and uncertainty into something hopeful. I also share the personal acronym BREATHE—a survival tool I created during some of my darkest seasons. It’s a step-by-step reminder to pause, persevere, and push forward. Through BREATHE and the spirit of Excelsior, I’ve learned that silver linings aren’t always obvious—but they are always there for those willing to look up.

s3e5: blast from the past | the microsteps that are too small to fail

original air date: 10 April 2020 Originally aired in 2020, this episode is close to my heart—and today, I’m bringing it back as a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey. Inspired by Arianna Huffington’s idea of “microsteps”—small, actionable habits that are too small to fail—this episode explores how seemingly tiny shifts can lead to meaningful breakthroughs. Back when it first aired, the world was navigating uncertainty, and this message of gentle progress felt deeply needed. Now, five years later, it feels just as powerful—if not more. As I revisit this conversation, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come. Re-airing it is my way of honoring the growth, the lessons, and the person I was becoming back then—and still am today. Let’s take a moment to reminisce on the good old days, and maybe find something new in something old.

s3e4: Mbali Mzinyane | wellness in the workplace | workplace bullying | toxic work environments

This week on the breakthrough sessions podcast, I sit down with the powerful and insightful Mbali Mzinyane—a woman whose story and voice shed light on some of the darkest corners of the modern workplace. In this episode, we open up about workplace bullying, navigating toxic work environments, and the often-unspoken toll these experiences take on our mental health. Mbali shares her personal journey with honesty and strength, and we unpack what self-preservation looks like when your workplace becomes a battlefield. During our conversation, Mbali also references the book "Building Psychologically Safe Spaces: Safeguarding Your Workplace Against Bullying" by Dr. Ngao Motsei—a compelling read that unpacks the importance of creating healthier, more human-centered professional spaces. Be sure to grab your hands on a copy of that book! Whether you're currently in a difficult work situation or simply want to better understand the impact of workplace culture on wellbeing, this conversation is a must-listen! Follow Mbali Mzinyane for more on her incredible story: Website: https://www.mbalimzinyane.com/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lifewithmbali_?si=SOvEGSh0ybpavUCK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessintheworkplace_?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbali-mzinyane-1411b4152?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wellnessintheworkplace?_t=ZM-8vFHEj8We6H&_r=1 Tune in, reflect, and share with someone who needs this breakthrough.