The Relebogile Mabotja Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with award-winning investigative journalist Devi Sankaree Govender.Best known for her 18-year tenure chasing down criminals on Carte Blanche and now hosting The Devi Show, Devi reflects on her bold journey from freelance radio in Durban to becoming a media powerhouse in Johannesburg. She candidly discusses the risks of leaving a legacy show to build her own brand, the reality of the "gig economy" in media, and how she balances her hard-hitting on-screen persona with her true self.She opens up about her unique parenting journey raising a professional golfer daughter and an academic son, navigating the cultural nuances of her Indian heritage, and her spiritual philosophy that bridges her Hindu roots with a universalist worldview. Devi shares a raw and vulnerable look into her personal life, discussing the deep grief of losing her mother to breast cancer and the emotional complexities of caring for a father with advanced dementia. She speaks on the difficult decisions adult children face when parenting their parents and the resilience required to keep showing up when your personal world is crumbling.With her trademark wit and no-nonsense attitude, Devi proves that you can be a fearless crusader for the truth while remaining deeply grounded in spirituality and family.#RelebogilePod

On this episode of The Relebogile Mabotja Podcast, I am thrilled to be joined by multi-award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician, Donald.We talk about his journey from a shy child in Rustenburg to becoming a powerhouse in the South African music industry. Donald opens up about his early life as a talented footballer playing for Jomo Cosmos and Wits University, and the difficult, spiritual decision to walk away from professional sports to pursue his true calling in music.Our conversation explores the symbolism behind his iconic "Red Mic" and how he built his career on independence and self-belief. Donald reflects on the risks he took, including leaving a major label to start D-Exclusive Sounds in 2011, and the financial and emotional sacrifices made to produce his legendary live DVD recordings. He shares the heartbreaking story behind his massive hit "I Deserve"—born from a near-death car accident and a realisation about loyalty and love while recovering in a hospital hallway.We also dive into his current state of mind, the importance of rest, and finding peace and contentment in his artistry after years of grinding.This is an episode filled with vulnerability, industry insights, and inspiration—a testament to trusting your gut and investing in your own dreams 110%.#RelebogilePod

*This video includes sensitive mental health content. Viewer discretion is advised.*In this episode, I sit down with Pebetsi Nolo Matlaila — a true multihyphenate and one of the most resilient voices in South African entertainment.Best known for her role as Mokgadi on Skeem Saam, Pebetsi reflects on herunexpected rise from a cameo role to a beloved character, and the intense personal journey unfolding behind the scenes. She opens up about surviving an abusive marriage, experiencing homelessness, confronting long-standing trauma, and rebuilding her life while raising two daughters alone. Pebetsi also talks about writing her book, her passion for mental health advocacy, domestic violence awareness, and empowering women, as well as her transition into radio, coaching, and studying psychology to help others heal. With raw honesty and hard-earned wisdom, she reminds us that growth is possible even after the deepest pain.To get Pebetsi's book, contact: adecadeinmylifetime@gmail.com#RelebogileMabotjaPodcast #RelebogileMabotjaPod #RelebogilePod

On this episode of The Relebogile Mabotja Podcast, I am thrilled to be joined by stand-up comedian and actress, Celeste Ntuli.We talk about her childhood growing up as one of eight siblings, learning independence early, and finding inspiration from the ambitious women around her. Celeste opens up about how standing up for herself in school shaped her comedy and how her sister became both a mother figure and a trusted ally on her journey.Our conversation explores comedy as an intimate art form, her commitment to uplifting fellow comedians, and the constant challenge of setting boundaries as a natural giver and perfectionist. Celeste reflects on the blood, sweat, and tears that went into organizing her own comedy shows — from selling tickets herself to curating experiences that truly connect with her audience. She shares her deep love for the craft, the pressures women face, and how she continues to grow by embracing purpose and self-awareness. We also dive into her career milestones, her thoughts on the so-called “biological clock,” singlehood, and the pursuit of happiness on her own terms.This is an episode filled with gratitude, liberation, and courage — a celebration of chasing ambition unapologetically while living in your purpose.#RelebogilePod #Connect with us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576572680415Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relebogilepod/X: https://x.com/RelebogilePodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relebogilepod?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@relebogilepod?hl=enBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/relebogilepod.bsky.socialPinterest: https://pin.it/6oLzitfKi

I speak to celebrated author, marketing guru, and one of South Africa’s original digital pioneers, Khaya Dlanga.He takes me through his incredible journey as a “YouTube Ancestor,” starting 18 years ago from a dark room with a cheap phone. Khaya reminisces about the early days of the internet and the story behind the viral #ThingsDarkiesSay hashtag that sparked a global culture clash. He reflects on how these early experiences shaped the digital landscape and his own career.We delve into his high-stakes marketing journey, from learning global lessons at Coca-Cola and Heineken to the humbling experience of saving a failing brand. Khaya pulls back the curtain on his time as CMO at Rain, revealing the intense pressure of launching 5G in South Africa before almost anyone else in the world and navigating the bizarre conspiracy theories that followed.In a moment of profound vulnerability, Khaya opens up about the devastating loss of his brother to suicide. He speaks with raw honesty about his brother's struggle with a gambling addiction, the painful decision to fire him, and the heavy burden of guilt that followed. He shares the heartbreaking final words his brother left behind and how his mother, in her own immense grief, made a chilling prophecy about her own life, leading Khaya to believe she ultimately died of a broken heart.This episode is about resilience in the face of unspeakable tragedy, the courage to be vulnerable, and the complex journey of understanding grief, success, and self-worth.#RelebogilePod Connect with us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576572680415Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relebogilepod/X: https://x.com/RelebogilePodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relebogilepod?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@relebogilepod?hl=enBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/relebogilepod.bsky.socialPinterest: https://pin.it/6oLzitfKi

*The official recording date of this episode was 10 October 2025.*In an interview that is as profound as it is revealing, renowned therapist and #MarriedAtFirstSight expert Thabang Mashigo joins me in the studio for a conversation that peels back every layer.We journey through Thabang’s incredible past, uncovering her surprising career as a political scientist and diplomat working within the presidency. She explains the deeply personal reasons behind her "great pivot" from the world of politics to her true calling in psychology, and how her own family dynamics ignited a passion for building healthy family units for others.Thabang opens up with incredible vulnerability about the grief that reshaped her life. She shares the story of losing her mother and grandmother on the exact same day during the pandemic and the harrowing trauma of discovering her best friend had been murdered. She explains how this profound pain became the ultimate catalyst, teaching her the difference between pain that breaks and pain that builds.Thabang pulls back the curtain on her experience as an expert on #MarriedAtFirstSightMzansi. She addresses the intense viewer feedback, clarifies her "harsh" approach with the cast, and reveals the behind-the-scenes truths. She shares the unseen context of the participants' deep-seated traumas and the immense pressure of filming a reality show that deals with real human hearts.Looking ahead, Thabang shares her powerful philosophy on healing. She discusses why she champions alternative therapy methods, from aromatherapy to ancient rituals, and explains the critical link between our unresolved emotions and our physical health. She leaves us with her powerful mission: to heal together, one person at a time.Experience all the twists, love, and lessons from Married at First Sight Mzansi. Watch the full current season and revisit Season 1 on Mzansi Magic Catch Up or Showmax.#RelebogilePod

*The official recording date of this episode was 10 October 2025.*Nkululeko Mahlangu joins me in the studio today, and he's ready to share his full story.We journey through Nkululeko’s dynamic past, from his early days as a born performer involved in everything from gymnastics and dance crews to his established career in TV and advertising long before reality television. He opens up about his deep Christian upbringing and the painful breakup that led him down a dark path for a decade, and shares the powerful testimony of his return to faith.Nkululeko pulls back the curtain on his experience on #MarriedAtFirstSightMzansi Season 2, addressing all the controversial moments head-on. He explains the real reason behind his two-month no-sex rule, revealing it was about building a spiritual and mental connection first. He addresses the constant drama, the men's clinic conversation, and sets the record straight about the infamous "cheating tracker" story.Nkululeko speaks candidly about the verbal and alleged physical abuse he says he endured during the experiment, explaining why he chose to react with grace and silence on the show, and what finally pushed him to speak up at the reunion.Looking ahead, Nkululeko shares how he has moved forward. He talks about his beautiful relationship with his 12-year-old son, his healthy co-parenting dynamic with his ex, and the heartwarming story of how he met his new fiancée through a chance encounter with her father. He discusses his brotherhood with the male cast members and what he's learned about love, faith, and finding peace.#RelebogilePod

*This episode was recorded prior to recent events. The views shared reflect the guest’s personal emotional journey at that time. The purpose of this conversation is healing and understanding - not controversy or conflict. Since recording, the guest has taken positive steps toward growth, restoration, and professional rebuilding.*In this episode of The Relebogile Mabotja Podcast, I am in conversation with Makoto Phumodi, one of the most talked-about brides from #MarriedAtFirstSightMzansi, Season 2.We delve into her story, starting from her childhood in Ficksburg and her early start in the world of performance, from leading drum majorettes in grade school to landing her first radio gig in Grade 10.Makoto shares how her ambitious spirit and love for the spotlight shaped her journey into acting and behind-the-scenes production work long before her reality TV debut.Makoto opens up about what really happened in her marriage to Nkululeko. She addresses the big questions head-on: Was she acting? Why was sexual compatibility such a major issue? And what did she really think when she walked down the aisle? She gets candid about feeling mismatched by the experts, confronting Nkululeko's past, and dealing with what she describes as controlling behaviour.She reflects on the immense personal challenges she was navigating, sharing a deeply emotional account of her mother's passing and the grief that followed. Makoto also speaks on the complicated family dynamics with her father and how that conflict has impacted her life and relationships.Finally, we talk about her future. Makoto shares her powerful declaration to become an executive producer, her plans to tell her own story, and how she is applying the lessons from her past to heal, grow, and be the best mother she can be for her son. #RelebogilePod Connect with us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576572680415Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relebogilepod/X: https://x.com/RelebogilePodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relebogilepod?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@relebogilepod?hl=enBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/relebogilepod.bsky.socialPinterest: https://pin.it/6oLzitfKi

In honour of October being internationally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness and education about breast cancer, particularly early detection and treatment. I speak to Dr. Sithembile Ngidi about the vital work she does in this space. We explore how advanced educational platforms and treatments are helping to spread the word about breast cancer, a disease that is highly prevalent among South African women, and I also find out whether it affects men too.We also discuss detection, prevention, and screening, while unpacking facts and myths about breast cancer. This conversation is packed with informative insights and reminds us that breast cancer does not discriminate, it is not race-specific, and affects people regardless of gender or economic status.#RelebogileMabotjaPodcast #RelebogileMabotjaPod #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth This episode was brought to you by Novartis South Africa.Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Magwa Crescent West, Waterfall City, Jukskei View, 2090. Co. Reg. No. 1946/020671/07. Tel. No. +27 (0) 11 347 6600. To report an adverse event:Email: patientsafety.sacg@novartis.com or report it directly through our website: www.novartis.com/report. Alternatively, call 0861 929 929 (PharmaCall).To report product quality complaints:Email: ga.ohzais@novartis.com. Alternatively, call 0861 929 929 (PharmaCall).Connect with us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576572680415Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relebogilepod/X: https://x.com/RelebogilePodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relebogilepod?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@relebogilepod?hl=enBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/relebogilepod.bsky.socialPinterest: https://pin.it/6oLzitfKi

In this episode, I’m joined by Gogo Dineo for a heartfelt conversation about faith, healing, and embracing one’s true calling.We explore the relationship between African spirituality and Christianity, the importance of breaking generational cycles, and how inner-child healing can transform lives. Gogo Dineo also shares her personal journey, from the early signs of her spiritual path to the work she does today, helping others find meaning and healing.Through her wisdom and lived experience, Gogo Dineo reminds us of the power of spirituality to guide, restore, and connect us to our deepest selves.#RelebogilePod Connect with us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576572680415Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relebogilepod/X: https://x.com/RelebogilePodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relebogilepod?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@relebogilepod?hl=enBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/relebogilepod.bsky.socialPinterest: https://pin.it/6oLzitfKi

In raising awareness about cardiovascular disease during Heart Awareness Month, I am joined in the studio by Dr Farai Dube, an accomplished physician and cardiologist with over 20 years of medical experience. He speaks to me about the direct connection between heart conditions and strokes as part of cardiovascular disease. Also joined by Mntuwabantu Musa Sodaba, a patient who shared his experience of suffering a stroke in 2018 and how he lived with cardiovascular disease for seven years. His journey is one of resilience, faith, and the life-saving support of skilled medical professionals such as Dr Dube. I found out more about cardiovascular disease as one of the leading causes of death in South Africa. During our conversation, Dr Dube unpacked the risk factors which are lifestyle-related habits while also sharing ways to reduce them. This enlightening episode focuses on raising awareness and promoting early detection and treatment so that more people can survive and thrive, just like Mntuwabantu.#RelebogilePod This episode was brought to you by Novartis.Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Magwa Crescent West, Waterfall City, Jukskei View, 2090. Co. Reg. No. 1946/020671/07. Tel. No. +27 (0) 11 347 6600. To report an adverse event, email: patientsafety.sacg@novartis.com or report it directly through our website: www.novartis.com/report. Alternatively, call 0861 929 929 (PharmaCall).To report product quality complaints. email: ga.ohzais@novartis.com. Alternatively, call 0861 929 929 (PharmaCall).Connect with us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576572680415Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relebogilepod/X: https://x.com/RelebogilePodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relebogilepod?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@relebogilepod?hl=enBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/relebogilepod.bsky.socialPinterest: https://pin.it/6oLzitfKi

I am excited to be chatting with rapper and television presenter Moozlie. She truly is a gem and a sweetheart. We take it all the way back to her MTV and Vuzu days, where it all began. Moozlie tells me how she hustled hard, fuelled by blind faith and big dreams of simply being on TV. You might be surprised at the number of auditions she went through before finally landing her first TV gig. She broke into the scene during an era of powerhouse media personalities, quickly realising she had to work twice as hard to carve her own space in the entertainment industry. She reflects on her music career and her impact in the entertainment industry. We discuss her evolution with the culture, navigating backlash from fans when she drew inspiration from Brenda Fassie, and embracing her “Young Ma Brrrrrrrrrrr” energy. Moozlie opens up about the passion and drive it takes to build a homegrown brand, and how the creative people around her inspired her to discover her own fashion voice. Moozlie is the true definition of “faith it until you make it,” building a legacy that the culture will remember while living unapologetically as herself. #RelebogilePod Connect with us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576572680415Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relebogilepod/X: https://x.com/RelebogilePodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relebogilepod?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@relebogilepod?hl=enBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/relebogilepod.bsky.socialPinterest: https://pin.it/6oLzitfKiListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0rweJX1IFll7hi54FAXgjD?si=Ud-TllkoSlW23CLzqyBAHAListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/the-relebogile-mabotja-podcast/id1793762678