In this episode, Zanele van Zyl traces her journey from a career in IT to becoming one of South Africa’s most recognisable culinary voices. What began as curiosity sparked by home cooking evolved into a bold decision to leave corporate life, study at culinary school after becoming a mother, and pursue food without a clear roadmap — only conviction.

Zanele van Zyl shares how she built her brand organically through social media, launched nationwide cooking classes, and self-published two bestselling cookbooks after being turned down by publishers. Her decision to bet on herself paid off: her first self-published book sold out 300 copies in a single weekend, eventually earning Cookbook of the Year recognition and attracting major publishers who later approached her on her terms.

The conversation also explores Zanele’s passion for reimagining traditional South African cuisine, preserving cultural food heritage while gently modernising it for today’s kitchens. She speaks candidly about motherhood, imposter syndrome, the realities of entrepreneurship, and why staying true to herself — including embracing her language and identity — has been central to her success.

More than a food story, this episode is a masterclass in patience, authenticity, and long-term vision. Zanele’s journey reminds listeners that success is rarely overnight, that consistency matters more than perfection, and that food remains a universal language capable of building both businesses and communities.