World Radio Day is a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of radio — a medium that has continuously adapted and evolved in an ever-changing digital landscape. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected through technology, radio remains a cornerstone of live, personal communication.
Jacaranda FM’s Martin Bester, one of the leading broadcasters in South Africa, has witnessed firsthand the evolution of radio through decades of change. His extensive career, marked by memorable moments on air and a commitment to genuine storytelling, provides invaluable insights into how radio continues to thrive amid emerging technologies.
In celebration of World Radio Day on 13 February, Martin Bester opens up about his journey in the radio industry, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and his vision for the future of the medium.
How radio remains such an important medium in 2025
In a world filled with numerous communication platforms, people have access to various ways to receive messages. However, radio remains the most powerful medium, capable of reaching audiences anywhere, anytime.
Martin Bester shares his perspective on why he believes radio continues to be such a vital platform.
“I believe radio has remained a relevant and vital medium because it has always embraced new technologies rather than resisting them. Elements like TV, CDs, tapes, online streaming, websites and, these days, social media could all have been threats to the radio industry on a global scale – but they never replaced it and by working with these innovations and incorporating them into its content delivery, radio has managed to stay both current and essential. This is radio remains so powerful; its openness to change is key,” said Bester.
How radio has shaped Bester over the years
Bester also dwelled on the lessons and experiences his journey in the radio industry has taught him.
“Radio has taught me invaluable lessons in one-on-one communication. Broadcasting feels like having a personal conversation with a single listener on the other side, and that personal touch has profoundly influenced how I approach every conversation, both on and off the air,” said Bester.
Most memorable moments on air
Reflecting on his journey, Bester looks back on some of his most unforgettable moments on air.
“There are so many moments that come to mind when I try and think of my most memorable moments on air. I have had the pleasure of speaking to and interviewing a number of famous people, but my most memorable moments come from the listeners who call in and are part of the interaction and the conversation. Whether it’s kids participating in our ‘Friday’s My Day’ segment or adult callers sharing insightful—and often funny—comments, those moments have truly shaped my journey on air,” said Bester.
What listeners love about the ‘Breakfast with Martin Bester‘ show
Breakfast with Martin Bester on Jacaranda FM has built an incredibly loyal fanbase and earned numerous radio awards. Bester shares his thoughts on what makes the show so popular among listeners.
“I am incredibly grateful for the way our show has landed. It has come a massive part of people’s mornings across Gauteng, the North West, Mpumalanga and Limpopo – and even the rest of the country. We have a really strong team.
“Each person knows exactly what they need to deliver and bring to the table. We’re all on the lookout for great content and angles from South Africa and around the world and we try very hard to keep up with what South Africans want to talk about and hear during their mornings. We work hard to make our listeners feel like part of our family, and that connection is what really sets our show apart,” said Bester.
Bester’s inspiration to still do radio after so many years in the industry
Despite being one of South Africa’s leading broadcasters for years, Bester has no plans to leave the radio industry anytime soon. He shares what continues to inspire him to stay on air after so many years in the business.
“What keeps me inspired is the uniqueness of every broadcast. Every show is different. Every day brings new news and fresh topics in this fast-moving world. With social media making it easier to stay updated – and unpacking these conversations with our listeners is something I love doing. The live nature of radio keeps the energy high and it keeps me interested and motivated to deliver quality content,” said Bester.
The type of radio Bester enjoys listening to and how it shaped the broadcaster he is today
Bester shares the kind of radio he enjoys listening to and how it has influenced him into becoming one of South Africa’s leading broadcasters.
“Local radio remains my favourite because it is in tune with what is happening both locally and globally. I appreciate presenters who combine humour with insights that matter to everyday life. That personal touch, the sense of connection they foster, has greatly influenced my approach as a broadcaster. I admire voices that seem like friends—those who present the world with warmth and authenticity,” said Bester.
What listeners can expect from ‘Breakfast with Martin Bester’ this year
With 2025 now underway, Bester shares what listeners can look forward to on Breakfast with Martin Bester on Jacaranda FM this year and whether he has any new plans in store.
“The Breakfast With Martin Bester team has exciting plans for 2025. This year will feature a celebration of South African food culture and its global influences. Our show will highlight diverse culinary experiences—from Italy, Ethiopia, Korea to Mozambique— and how we can experience them right here in our city.
“We are going to be getting out there and sampling these foods, enjoying them and celebrating them. Our aim is to continuously surprise our audience and deliver content that truly resonates. That is what we as a team pride ourselves in and strive for. We have a range of incredible events lined up, and I’m very excited about what the year has in store,” said Bester.
Bester’s thoughts on the future of radio
Wrapping up his conversation with his thoughts on the future of radio, Bester shares his perspective.
“The future of radio is evolving alongside technology. Today, everything is on camera and people want to see what is going on in the studio, they want to communicate via the studio but also via social media, they want to comment on blog posts and they want to revisit a moment on air. Podcasting has become a natural extension of radio, allowing for deeper dives into topics that don’t always fit into a traditional broadcast.
“As the world celebrates the magic and power radio has in sparking conversations and entertaining billions across the globe, World Radio Day stands as a powerful reminder of the medium’s influence. With voices like Jacaranda FM’s Martin Bester leading, radio remains a vibrant part of daily life and a source of both entertainment and education for billions of people across the globe,” said Bester.
The Breakfast with Martin Bester show airs weekdays on Jacaranda FM.
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[…] ALSO CHECK OUT: Jacaranda FM’s Martin Bester talks about the future of radio this World Radio Day […]