https://solidgold.co.za Welcome to The Crucible, where the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy gives you a front row seat to conversations with specialists in the Minerals and Metals sector. SAIMM has well over 100 years’ experience in, and commitment to, protecting the professional standards of our industry. Join us as we discuss key issues, and global initiatives, to give you the relevant information needed to make informed decisions, to influence policy that directly affects our sector, and to help our industry grow in an uncertain future. Business en Thu, 22 Sep 2022 11:04:13 +0200 Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:22:20 +0200 30 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss iono.fm 2.5.2.0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard no Yearly feeds@iono.fm (Feed Manager) https://cdn.iono.fm/files/p1036/logo_7604_20250909_210752_1400.jpeg https://solidgold.co.za Welcome to The Crucible, where the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy gives you a front row seat to conversations with specialists in the Minerals and Metals sector. Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard episodic Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard info@solidgold.co.za false ZA https://iono.fm/e/1647376?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1647376?v=1
More than a story about climbing Everest, this is a powerful reminder that extraordinary achievements are built through daily commitment, calculated risk, and the willingness to begin — even when success isn’t guaranteed. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0200 0 0 30 years to Everest – Decisions, setbacks, and staying power | Dr Jeannette McGill 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 24:48 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1627484 https://iono.fm/e/1627484
What starts as a conversational exchange between two leaders becomes an insightful look into mentorship, volunteering, skill development, and the evolving needs of the mining industry. Gary and Elias discuss their backgrounds, the impact of SAIMM on industry knowledge-sharing, and the critical role of young professionals in shaping the sector’s future. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0200 0 0 Presidents In Conversation with Gary Lane & Elias Matinde 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 39:47 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1626003 https://iono.fm/e/1626003
Drawing from over 20 years of experience and deep sector-wide engagement, Boitumelo provides historical context, insight into structural biases, and clarity on what meaningful transformation requires within mining workplaces. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Fri, 05 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0200 0 0 Tackling Discrimination and Unconscious Bias in Hiring & Promotions 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 26:22 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1610687 https://iono.fm/e/1610687 Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:15:00 +0200 0 0 Tailings - how do we ensure we're doing it right? 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 44:05 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1593349 https://iono.fm/e/1593349
This conversation highlights how the committee aims to move beyond tick-box compliance toward meaningful action that creates a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable mining sector. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0200 0 0 Beyond Compliance | Re-imagining the SAIMM Diversity and Inclusion Committee 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 36:09 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1575296 https://iono.fm/e/1575296
This episode provides deep insights into the historical context, the urgent need for reform following past dam failures, and the multi-stakeholder drafting process behind the revised standard. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0200 0 0 The Influence of the GISTM on South African Tailings Management and the SANS 10286 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 18:03 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1564747 https://iono.fm/e/1564747
In this episode of The Crucible, host Kabelo Rathobei is joined by Alex Khumalo, Head of Social Performance at the Minerals Council South Africa, for a deep dive into the often-misunderstood concept of the social license to operate (SLO) in the mining sector.

Together, they explore why legal compliance alone is no longer enough, and how mining companies must shift their focus from box-ticking exercises to building genuine, long-term partnerships with host communities. Khumalo discusses the importance of going beyond compliance, the role of government and policy, and why collaboration and economic diversification are key to sustainable development.

Whether you're in mining, policy, or community engagement, this conversation offers valuable insight into the evolving expectations of the mining industry in South Africa. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:50:00 +0200 0 0 SLO in Mining | Kabelo Rathobei and Alex Khumalo 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 29:12 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1550738 https://iono.fm/e/1550738
This episode was recorded with the Hydrometallurgy Conference in mind, which has since passed, but we believe that this is a pertinent episode which continues to drive the post-conference conversation forward. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Tue, 29 Apr 2025 12:15:00 +0200 0 0 Hydrometallurgy of the Future | Buhle Xakalshe and Jochen Petersen 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 1:06:01 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1534106 https://iono.fm/e/1534106
Erwee, an industry expert, dives into the pressing challenges and groundbreaking opportunities on the path to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. He unpacks the complex balancing act between meeting the country’s energy demands and reducing emissions, emphasising that South Africa’s energy sector remains the largest contributor to carbon output. He also highlights the stark contrast between developed nations with greater resources for decarbonisation, and South Africa’s need to navigate its transition carefully to avoid economic disruption.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of energy, sustainability, and the evolving industrial landscape in South Africa. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0200 0 0 South Africa and Carbon Tax | Erwee Lourens 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 40:47 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1523470 https://iono.fm/e/1523470
This episode features Ken Lomberg (former chairperson and current Director at Pivot Mining Consultants) and Nicole Wansbury (the new chairperson) explore the significance of this essential code, which has been setting the benchmark for responsible mineral asset reporting since 2000.

Managed by the SAIMM and GSSA, the SAMREC Code ensures that mineral resources are reported accurately and consistently across all commodities and geological environments. The discussion also covers key topics such as the pivotal role of Competent Persons (CPs), the importance of technical studies in guiding project development, and how governance is embedded within the code’s framework.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation about the code that continues to shape the future of mining and mineral reporting! Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Sat, 01 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0200 0 0 SAMREC Code and its impact on the Minerals Industry | Nicole Wansbury and Ken Lomberg 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 37:54 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1503516 https://iono.fm/e/1503516
Listen in on this captivating conversation between Prelisha Singh, Mark Munroe, and Nomsa Mbere who discuss their experiences in leadership, pitching the appropriate leadership relationship, and the symbiotic nature of leadership roles.

Their conversation spotlights the importance of being open to learning, adapting one's leadership style to their environment, and addressing unconscious bias on the basis of gender. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:00:00 +0200 0 0 Leading Beyond Boundaries | Mark Munroe, Prelisha Singh, and Nomsa Mbere 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 35:14 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1493999 https://iono.fm/e/1493999
This episode of The Crucible the podcast celebrates Mintek's 90th anniversary and its contributions to the mineral and metallurgical industry. Zelmia Botha (Project Manager Feasibility Studies | Exxaro) is joined by industry stalwart, Roger Paul, who is preceded by a 35 year legacy with Mintek. Roger shares his passion for research and Mintek's significant contributions to mineral and metallurgical innovation. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:15:00 +0200 0 0 Mintek@90 | Roger Paul 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 42:22 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1484362 https://iono.fm/e/1484362
In this episode of The Crucible podcast, SAIMM YPC Office Bearer, Connie Chijara, hosts Tokyo Ndlela, Managing Partner at Tokyo Ndlela Attorneys Inc., SAIMM YPC Office Bearer, entrepreneur, and lawyer in the mining industry.

Tokyo shares his background, starting in the oil and gas industry before transitioning to mining law, and discusses the benefits of entrepreneurship, such as developing an ownership mindset and the importance of personal growth. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Fri, 20 Sep 2024 09:30:00 +0200 0 0 Entrepreneurship and what it means to you | Tokyo Ndlela 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 25:10 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1476649 https://iono.fm/e/1476649
Join SAIMM YPC Chairperson, Kondwani Banda and CEO of OIM Consulting, Arjen de Bruin as they discuss Arjen's illustrious career in the mining industry and essential tools that influence productivity in the minerals industry. Arjen unpacks the importance of leadership, culture, and a people-centric approach in driving productivity improvements. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0200 0 0 Productivity in the Minerals Industry | Arjen de Bruin Part 02 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 41:07 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1476647 https://iono.fm/e/1476647
Join SAIMM YPC Chairperson, Kondwani Banda and CEO of OIM Consulting, Arjen de Bruin as they discuss Arjen's illustrious career in the mining industry and essential tools that influence productivity in the minerals industry. Arjen unpacks the importance of leadership, culture, and a people-centric approach in driving productivity improvements. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Mon, 02 Sep 2024 15:45:00 +0200 0 0 Productivity in the Minerals Industry | Arjen de Bruin Part 01 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 34:23 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1447003 https://iono.fm/e/1447003
William shares his background and experience in the mining industry, including his work at Anglo American, SRK Consulting, and his involvement with various organisations like the South African National Institute for Rock Engineering (SANIRE) and the International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM).

He discusses the importance of SAIMM in creating a platform for professionals to engage, learn, and share ideas, as well as its role in addressing challenges faced by the minerals industry through collaboration with other institutes, the Minerals Council South Africa, and the government. William highlights the benefits of SAIMM membership, such as access to publications, conferences, and networking opportunities. He also emphasises the importance of research and development, and the need for the industry to transition towards renewable energy and sustainable practices.

The conversation touches on topics like the impact of global events on the industry, the brain-drain of young engineers, and the value of creating a global network through SAIMM. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Fri, 31 May 2024 17:00:00 +0200 0 0 Presidents in Conversation | William Joughin 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 29:24 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1444076 https://iono.fm/e/1444076
The key points they discuss include Rare Earth minerals being abundant but difficult to mine and extract, with low concentrations in ores (around 0.3%). They are essential for many modern technologies like electronics, renewable energy, defence systems, etc. Global consumption is around 200,000-300,000 tons per year. China currently dominates the production (97% in 2011). Other countries like the US, Australia, and South Africa are investing in developing their own rare earth supply chains to reduce reliance on China.

The major challenges include high costs, environmental impact, lack of downstream processing facilities, and skills shortages. Recycling, finding alternatives, and reducing waste are key focus areas to improve sustainability.

Collaboration between the government, the private sector, and research institutions is crucial for South Africa to develop a rare earth industry. Dr Elmar also presents some action items that could assist South Africa to develop a Rare Earth industry.

Zelmia briefly mentions conferences like the Rare Earths Conference and the Battery Materials Conference which are being organised by the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) which aim to facilitate such collaborations. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Wed, 22 May 2024 14:30:00 +0200 0 0 Rare Earths: Global Impact and Sustainability | Elmar Muller 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 49:16 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1436549 https://iono.fm/e/1436549
Key points include: Mentorship providing developmental value by facilitating knowledge transfer and skills growth through guidance from experienced individuals. A connected economy involves collaboration across borders, industries, and demographics, enabled by digital connectivity.

Simone also discusses how organisations should benchmark best practices and collaborate to optimise mentorship programmes and leverage diverse mentor pools. She also explains how cross-gender mentorship offers valuable perspectives, however ethical considerations like preventing inappropriate conduct, are important. Connect with Simone Naicker on LinkedIn · Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0200 0 0 The Value and Importance of Mentoring | Simone Naicker 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 45:40 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1434177 https://iono.fm/e/1434177
Dr. Crundwell is a chemical engineer with extensive experience in the mining and metallurgy industry. He shares his career journey, highlighting the importance of being well-versed in various disciplines and combining ideas from different fields to solve complex problems. Dr Crundwell emphasizes the need for curiosity, continuous learning, and developing rules of thumb to become an effective generalist.

The conversation also touches on the potential impact of AI on professional services and the need for mining companies to invest in research and development to address challenges like lower ore grades. Overall, the podcast provides insights into the value of interdisciplinary thinking and the evolving nature of careers in the mining and metallurgy sector. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Wed, 24 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0200 0 0 Range vs Specialisation: The Significance of Interdisciplinary Approaches | Dr Frank Crundwell 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 40:56 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1408876 https://iono.fm/e/1408876
In the mining industry, we're witnessing a transition towards sustainable mining practices and increasing emphasis on resource efficiency. In this episode, we explore how the sampling and blending methodologies can be adapted for the changing environments with Richard Minnitt, Chris Robben, Martin Lischka, and Terence Nkosi. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Thu, 22 Feb 2024 13:45:00 +0200 0 0 Sampling and Blending | Richard Minnitt, Chris Robben, Martin Lischka & Terence Nkosi 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 51:49 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1396503 https://iono.fm/e/1396503
Zelmia Botha is joined in the SAIMM The Crucible studio by Dr Johan Zietsman. Dr Zietsman has worked with a wide range of metals, holds a PhD in Pyrometallurgy, and is the CEO of Ex Mente. He speaks on the future of pyrometallurgy with the developments of Technology, highlighting the importance of failing. Failing early, failing cheaply, and failing well. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Tue, 16 Jan 2024 10:15:00 +0200 0 0 Pyrometallurgy | Dr. Johan Zietsman 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 59:49 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1394492 https://iono.fm/e/1394492
Fatima Hayat joins Kabelo Rathobei in The SAIMM Crucible studio. Fatima is a Human Resource Manager at Glencore and Communications lead at WIMSA. She speaks on creating a diverse and inclusive mining industry. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0200 0 0 Creating a diverse and inclusive mining industry | Fatima Hayat 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 26:13 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1386498 https://iono.fm/e/1386498 Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Fri, 01 Dec 2023 15:30:00 +0200 0 0 Conquering a male dominated industry | Nonkululeko Mabuza 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 29:26 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1365608 https://iono.fm/e/1365608
Sustainability of business is believed to be reliant on the pillars of ESG compliance, Environmental, Social and Governance. In conversation with Professor Gordon Smith, we look at the additional S in ESG. Understanding the impact of ESG for companies and investigating how the mining and minerals industry can work alongside communities to overcome challenges. Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Thu, 12 Oct 2023 06:30:00 +0200 0 0 The extra S in ESGS | Gordon Smith 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 44:14 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1354160 https://iono.fm/e/1354160 Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Mon, 04 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0200 0 0 Infrastructure and how it impacts Africa's Copper production | Steve Sackett 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 39:11 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1351778 https://iono.fm/e/1351778 Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:30:00 +0200 0 0 Infrastructure and how it impacts Africa's copper production | Freda Gordon 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 26:47 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1342095 https://iono.fm/e/1342095
What is happening in the world of mining? Has the Giant fallen? Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Fri, 04 Aug 2023 13:03:00 +0200 0 0 The Fall of a Giant by Dr Ian Robinson 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 36:18 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1311644 https://iono.fm/e/1311644
Discover why SAIMM should be your first choice, offering collaborative platforms and industry expert networks for constructive solutions and industry-standard protection. Unleash the potential of being part f this influential network and shape the future of mining and metallurgy.

Tune in to explore the transformative power of SAIMM and the opportunities it provides for professional growth and advancement. Find out more about SAIMM · Join SAIMM here]]> Business Thu, 18 May 2023 09:06:00 +0200 0 0 Your path to professional excellence - Insights from SAIMM's Presidents 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard full 24:29 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) https://iono.fm/e/1230261?v=4 https://iono.fm/e/1230261?v=4
This crisis was averted, and the world's largest mining industry was saved when 14 chemists and metallurgists came together to solve the problem, collaboratively and innovatively. This was the birth of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

With a legacy of over 100 years in the industry, SAIMM remains committed to helping people connect with each other, to collaborate, to share and disseminate knowledge, and to create a culture of learning - all while protecting and maintaining the professional standards of our industry.

Welcome to The Crucible, the official podcast of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. We give you a front-row seat to conversations with specialists in the minerals and metal sector.

In each episode, we discuss global initiatives and key issues of the day, providing stakeholders with the relevant information they need to make informed decisions, influence policy, and grow the industry in an uncertain future.

With insightful interviews, thought-provoking discussions, and expert analysis, this podcast offers a unique perspective on the industry’s past, present, and future.
So, join us on this journey through The Crucible, where we explore the fascinating world of mining and metallurgy, and equip you with the knowledge to make an impact in the industry.

Welcome to The Crucible. Visit our website · Visit the SAIMM Website]]> Business Thu, 22 Sep 2022 11:04:00 +0200 0 0 Welcome to The Crucible with SAIMM 0 0 Solid Gold Podcasts #BeHeard trailer 2:04 The Crucible - Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM)