An Extraordinary Take

Епизоди

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  Health Knowledge in Your Hands and in Your Language with Dr. Lethu Letsoalo 06.08.2026 1ч 22мин

  We're back with a powerful conversation you won't want to miss! This week, we sit down with one of the most extraordinary young medical voices of our time, Dr. Lethukwenama Letsoalo. Known for breaking barriers by creating health content in isiZulu, Dr. Lethu has reached over 20 million viewers and built a community of more than 250,000 followers across social platforms. Her mission? To transform public healthcare by putting medical knowledge directly into the hands of everyday people. In this episode, Dr. Lethu opens up about the urgent need for women to understand their bodies more deeply, especially as conditions like fibroids, ovarian cysts, and PMOS become increasingly common. We explore why knowing what's "normal" and what isn't can be life-changing, and how informed patients can better advocate for themselves in doctors' rooms. Dr. Lethu's passion for empowering ordinary citizens and particulalry those from marginalised communities shines through as she shares practical insights, challenges misconceptions, and explains how accessible education can help people take better charge of their wellbeing. Whether you're curious about your own health journey or passionate about reshaping the healthcare system, this episode will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to take action.  
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  The Polygamist's Jonasi: Fact or fiction? 02.07.2026 2ч 8мин

  The Polygamist, Netflix's adaptation of Sue Nyathi's novel, has had everyone talking since its release over three weeks ago. If you haven't watched it yet, run! Packed with cliffhangers that leave you gasping for more, the show is entertaining but also deeply triggering for many viewers. In this week's episode, we bring together a panel of voices all impacted by the show in different ways. Joining us are Thuli Zuma, Writer and Executive Producer of the series; Lungi Buhale, content creator and business owner; and Sandile Biyela, marketer and host of Men: The Life & Times. Each offers a unique perspective on the "Jonasi experience." Together, we unpack major themes such as the role of fathers in society and the home, what truly defines a man, and whether those roles remain relevant in today's nuclear family. Lungi shares her personal journey; growing up with a father like Jonasi, a mother in the "side chick" role, becoming a Matipa and later navigating single motherhood herself. Thuli reflects on the writing process and what the team hopes viewers take away. Sandile explores men's responsibility in teaching boys how to be men, and why society often enables figures like Jonasi to thrive. This episode is both an honest review of the show and a deeper look at how its themes mirror real family dynamics. It challenges us to confront the "Jonasis" in our own lives and break the generational traumas they leave behind. Enjoy!  
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  Redefining Alignment: Love, Divorce, and Entrepreneurship 09.04.2026 1ч 6мин

  In this episode, we sit down with Tech Entrepreneur Motsabi Makhetha who has carved her path in one of the most demanding industries, the events space. Motsabi shares the realities of building a company in a sector often plagued by disorganization, overpromising, and underdelivering. She opens up about how her business mitigates these challenges, the lessons she's learned from running a diverse business directory of entrepreneurs and suppliers, and the practical tips that can help small business owners take their ventures the distance. But Motsabi's story doesn't stop at entrepreneurship. Her personal journey through marriage, divorce, and cultural expectations has deeply influenced her professional philosophy. She speaks candidly about how the experience of love and loss led her to factor marriage readiness into her work, and why it's a conversation couples can't afford to ignore. From the key questions women should ask before saying "I do," to the considerations men must weigh, and the subtle signs that a marriage may not be built to last, Motsabi offers wisdom rooted in both personal experience and professional insight. Together, we explore how cultural narratives, especially in African societies where marriage is often seen as the ultimate prize for women, can shape identity, and how divorce reshaped her own perspective. Motsabi's reflections challenge the idea that a woman's life is incomplete without marriage, offering instead a vision of empowerment, readiness, and self‑defined success. This episode is a powerful blend of entrepreneurial grit and personal truth. Whether you're navigating the challenges of business ownership, reflecting on relationships, or seeking inspiration from someone who has walked both paths, Motsabi Makhetha's story will leave you with practical takeaways and thought‑provoking insights.  
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  When the body speaks; do you listen? 19.03.2026 57мин

  We often celebrate the mind and soul, but the body; the vessel that carries us through every experience, too easily becomes overlooked, criticized, or dragged along until it breaks. In this episode, I explore the forgotten role of the body in the mind–body–soul triad, and how our collective culture of "fixing" and "improving" our bodies has left us disconnected from its wisdom. I share the moment a simple quote "your body hears everything your mind says" made me realize how unkind I had been to my own body, and that in order to find true wellness and health, I first had to make amends. Through reconnecting with my body's signals, respecting its needs, and learning from practices like kinesiology, I discovered how much trauma was stored within and how vital it was to help my body release it. This episode is an invitation to pause, listen, and rediscover the body not as a burden, but as a partner in healing. If you've ever felt unwell, disconnected, or at odds with yourself, join me in exploring how serving the body allows it to better serve you, and how returning to this connection can transform your overall wellbeing. 
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  When Going Home Hurts: Boundaries, Healing & Family Dynamics During the Festive Season 25.12.2025 1ч 7мин

  The holiday season often brings us back into the heart of family but what happens when those spaces are no longer safe, supportive, or aligned with the healing work we've begun? In this powerful conversation with psychologist Dr. NkululekoMhlongo (Dr. Better), we unpack the realities of mental health in Black communities during the festive season. From navigating triggers and setting boundaries, to the rise of younger generations choosing therapy and even estrangement, this episode asks the tough questions: What does family really mean for us today? Are old habits and traditions serving the future we're trying to build? We also explore the stigma around depression, the generational shifts in therapy access, and how breaking cycles of silence and trauma can reshape what family looks like for generations to come. This episode is not just about surviving the holidays, it's about reimagining family, breaking generational curses, and creating space for healthier, more authentic connections.   
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  GBVF in South Africa: A Crisis We Can't Ignore 20.11.2025 1ч

  South Africa is often called the rape capital of the world, and the numbers are devastating: 15 women are murdered every day, and 117 rapes are reported daily; with thousands more going unreported. Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) is not just a crisis; it's a national emergency. In this episode of An Extraordinary Take, host Sibonisile Cossa sits down with Cameron Kasambala, spokesperson for Women For Change, the organisation behind the G20 Women's Shutdown campaign. This bold movement calls for GBVF to be declared a national disaster, unlocking urgent government intervention and systemic change. Together, we unpack: The cultural norms and belief systems that fuel GBVF, including the dangerous idea that men and women are not equal. How abuse is learned as early as age 7, perpetuating cycles of violence across generations. Why the G20 Women's Shutdown is a critical moment for South Africa—and how ordinary citizens can take action. This conversation is raw, urgent, and deeply human. It's not just for women, it's for men who want to listen, learn, and grow their empathy, and discover practical ways to support survivors and dismantle harmful norms. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sexual violence, femicide, and trauma. Please take care of yourself while listening, and be kind to yourself if any part of the conversation feels triggering. Tune in, reflect, and join the movement to end GBVF.
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  You're Never Too Old For Childlike Faith 06.11.2025 1ч 3мин

  This week's episode is more of a story time where we journey through the miraculous and the mysterious, these are moments where faith met the supernatural and the impossible became reality. You know those moments where every plan you had has gone out the window and you have nothing new up your sleeve; but how just when you were about to lose hope, things come together and work out even better than you had hoped or expected. I call these moments in my life my Faith Chronicles, the moments where I knew for certain that God really exists and is For Me. It's my faith chronicles that allowed my younger self to be more daring, to go for opportunities that seemed way above me, while trusting that the impossible was in fact, possible and that a miracle could just be on the other side of my daring to try.  As we grow older, the fearless parts of ourselves often get buried beneath the need for structure, certainty, and control. But this episode is a gentle, powerful reminder that we are never too old for childlike faith. It's a call to remember the magic that once moved us, the daring leaps we took without knowing the full story, and the grace that met us mid-air. Whether you're in a season of doubt or simply longing to reconnect with the wonder of trusting in the unseen, this episode will reignite your spirit. It's an invitation to believe again, to expect miracles, and to live with the quiet confidence that we are always looked after by a loving God.  You have your own Faith Chronicles too. Let this episode help you remember them so you can trust again.
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  Are You Being Humble Or Just Bracing Yourself For Failure? 23.10.2025 1ч

  Did you know that research shows people often prefer complainers over those who speak positively about their lives? It's a surprising truth that reveals how deeply our culture discourages self-celebration, especially for women. In this episode, we challenge the idea that humility means shrinking yourself. We explore how being too humble might actually be holding you back from the success, joy, and opportunities you deserve. If you've ever downplayed your achievements to seem more relatable or avoid being labeled as "braggy," this conversation is for you. We dive into: Why redefining bragging is a radical act of self-love How celebrating your wins can attract more abundance The power of betting on yourself and believing you could be the exception Minimizing your accomplishments doesn't serve you or the world. It's time to learn how to brag in a way that builds you up, inspires others, and honors the greatness within you.  If you're ready to shift how you see yourself, speak about your goals, and step into your power unapologetically—tune in. This might just be the mindset shift that unlocks your dream life.
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  How to Say No: The Black Tax Survival Guide 03.10.2025 1ч 13мин

  Remember that episode about family members who only call when they need something? Well, Part 2 is here, and it's deeper, bolder, and more necessary than ever. This time, we're joined by Phumza Chuene, a Black Tax Coach and author of The Black Tax Survival Guide, a powerful guide that's helping Black professionals across South Africa and beyond reclaim their financial and emotional autonomy. In this episode, Phumza unpacks the cultural weight of Black Tax, the silent guilt that often accompanies success, and the emotional toll of being the "go-to" in your family. But this isn't just a conversation, it's a toolkit. Phumza shares practical strategies for setting boundaries, saying "No" without shame, and redefining what support looks like in a way that honors both heritage and personal well-being. If you've ever felt torn between love and obligation, or struggled to balance generosity with self-preservation, this episode is for you. It's raw, real, and radically empowering. 
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  More Than a Provider: Reimagining Black Fatherhood with Mutle Mothibe 18.09.2025 1ч 23мин

  In this powerful and heartfelt episode, acclaimed poet and writer Mutle Mothibe, a father of three, joins us for an intimate conversation about the evolving role of Black fathers in the household. We explore the profound distinction between being a father and being a dad, and how intentional parenting can foster lifelong friendships between fathers and their children, relationships that many in previous generations never had the tools or emotional language to build. Long before "gentle parenting" became a global phenomenon, Mutle was living it and  embodying a style of fatherhood that is intentional, empathetic, and revolutionary. In this episode, we celebrate the anomaly he represents in his generation and the powerful example he sets for Black dads everywhere. Mutle opens up about the inner work required to show up not just as a provider, but as a present, emotionally attuned, and nurturing figure in his children's lives. We unpack how traditional titles and expectations often limit men from fully connecting with their children, and what it means to parent without a blueprint; especially in a society where Black fatherhood has long been misrepresented or misunderstood. Mutle shares how creating emotional safety at home has empowered his children to feel secure in themselves and in the world. He offers deep insights for both men and women on how to parent from a place of emotional clarity and self-awareness, rather than reaction, and how doing so allows children to experience the best version of their parents. We also dive into the importance of seeing children as whole human beings, not just as dependents, and how dehumanizing them through dismissal or control can fracture the parent-child bond. This episode is a celebration of healing, growth, and the redefinition of what it means to be a dad in today's world.
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  Those Who Influence Your Perspective Shape Your Experience 04.09.2025 53мин

  "Your perspective will either become your Prison or your passport; choose wisely"  Who has shaped the way you see the world? How much of what you believe about yourself and your life has been unconsciously influenced by others? In this episode, I reflect on a somewhat life altering day spent with two of my high school teachers. One, a fabulous woman in her late 50s, is navigating a cancer diagnosis with grace and joy that can only be described as inspirational. The other, a widow who has endured profound loss, radiated so much wisdom and wonder, it left me in awe. Despite their challenges, both women exuded such immense gratitude and light that it shifted something deep within me. It reminded me that our perspective doesn't just shape how we see the world; it defines how we experience it. I realised that many of our limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns are inherited, not chosen. But once we become aware, we can choose differently. This episode invites you to examine your own perspective: Is it serving you or holding you back? Who's influencing how you see the world, and is their view worth carrying forward? Or is it time to adopt new ways of living, loving, and experiencing life? If you're ready to reclaim your mindset, elevate your thinking, and live with more clarity and purpose, this conversation is for you.  
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  Building a Life You Love Before Love Finds You 15.08.2025 1ч 9мин

  In this episode of An Extraordinary Take, I'm joined by my good friend Kuda as we unpack the often-overlooked beauty of singlehood. We challenge the notion that being single is to be endured as a waiting cell before the desired destination of marriage. Kuda reflects on his own journey of navigating singleness as a black man and the responsibility that comes with being seen as an eligible bachelor.   We explore how embracing singleness with joy, adventure, and self-awareness can lay the foundation for deeper, healthier relationships in the future. We also discuss the risks of rushing into marriage out of fear or cultural/religious pressure, and how clarity in your single years can shape the kind of partnership you choose in the future .    This episode is a celebration of singlehood as a space for growth, joy, and radical self-love. Whether you're already married, seeking, or navigating the complexities of being single, this conversation offers a fresh lens on how to live fully in the now, whatever it looks like for you.  
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  What traveling reveals about oneself and the world 31.07.2025 1ч 6мин

  And we're back! After a 3 week break, An Extraordinary Take returns with its 10th episode. In today's episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of travel. More than just a leisure activity, travel is a gateway to expanding your worldview, challenging your assumptions, and connecting with the broader human experience. We unpack the myths and misconceptions that often hold people back, like the idea that you need a partner or a group of friends to travel, or that your life must be perfectly in order (complete with a house and car) before you can explore the world. We challenge these limiting beliefs and invite you to consider travel as an act of courage, curiosity, and self-discovery. We also explore how travel opens your heart, not just to the beauty and joy of other cultures, but also to their pain and struggles. We reflect on the importance of empathy and how being present to the suffering of others, like the ongoing genocide in Gaza, can profoundly shape how we choose to show up in the world.  This is not just an episode about destinations, it's about awakening. It's about seeing yourself and others more clearly, and embracing the responsibility that comes with that awareness. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone dreaming of your first trip, this episode will inspire you to move beyond fear, beyond comfort, and into a life of deeper connection and purpose. 
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  The Trap of "More and Better": Escaping the Endless Chase 03.07.2025 48мин

  In a world where luxury is celebrated and progress is often measured by possessions, many of us find ourselves caught in a loop, waiting for the next big thing, the next breakthrough, the next season of abundance, before we allow ourselves to truly live. But what if this constant pursuit of "more" is quietly robbing us of the richness of the present moment? This episode invites listeners to pause and reflect: Are we living in a state of perpetual waiting, believing that fulfillment lies just beyond the next achievement or acquisition? With influencer culture on the rise and comparison more accessible than ever; the pressure to measure up can make contentment feel like a distant dream. We also explore the subtle dangers of romanticising the future while resenting the present, and ask:  What does it mean to be truly content with life as it is, even if we believe it could be better?  Can we create joy, meaning, and memories with what we have now, instead of postponing our "best life" for a future that may never arrive? Join us we unpack what it really means "to arrive." Is there ever a point where we feel we have enough? Or are we chasing a moving target, forever stuck in a cycle of wanting and striving for more ? This episode of An Extraordinary Take challenges the narrative of endless pursuit and invites you to consider the possibility that the present moment, unfiltered and unembellished, might already be enough.  
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  Could you be the problem ? Spotting Toxic Traits in Yourself at Work 19.06.2025 1ч 18мин

  In this episode we dive into the complex world of workplace dynamics with HR Specialist Thobeka Msweli. Together, we explore what really goes on behind the office doors, from the subtle signs of a toxic work culture to the often-unspoken reasons why internal promotions are passed over in favor of external hires. Thobeka brings her expert lens to help us understand how to recognise if you might be the toxic colleague and what it takes to change for the better. We also unpack practical strategies for increasing your visibility at work, positioning yourself for growth, and navigating career transitions. Whether you're a young graduate trying to break into the job market or a seasoned professional feeling stuck, this episode offers honest insights, actionable advice, and a fresh perspective on how to thrive in today's challenging workplace landscape. Tune in for a bold and extraordinary take on the realities of work  and how to make it work for you.          
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  Ukukotiza: Sacred Tradition or Subtle Oppression? 13.06.2025 1ч 44мин

  This week, I'm joined by Producer, Pastor, and Podcaster Blaq Nubon who is the creator and host of That Husband Podcast, the only podcast on the continent dedicated to husbands under the powerful theme: "Husbands who know better, do better." Together, we dive deep into the institution of marriage and the many dynamics that shape it. From ukukotiza, (a traditional Zulu practice where a new wife (makoti) lives with her in-laws to learn domestic skills and adapt to her new role as caregiver for her husband and extended family) to the ways men communicate in relationships as well as how cultural customs continue to influence modern unions. We also ask the big questions: Do age-old practices like ukotiza still have a place in today's world? How can couples create their own relationship dynamics in a society where everyone seems to have an opinion on how marriage should work? Whether you're married, considering marriage, or simply curious about how relationships evolve within the African context, this episode offers honest insights, cultural reflection, and practical wisdom. Let us know what you think by rating this episode or leaving a comment on our social media platforms.     
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  The Cost of Being the One Who 'Made It' - Unpacking the Emotional and Financial Strain of Unequal Success in Black Families 05.06.2025 42мин

  In this episode, we delve into the emotional and relational complexities that arise when one person becomes the only financially successful member in their family. We explore in particular how sibling relationships can become strained—sometimes even breaking down, when success is unevenly distributed.  We also unpack the subtle ways in which these dynamics can become transactional, with the successful sibling either feeling burdened as a provider or using their status to assert superiority. The episode offers practical reflections for both parties to foster healthier, more respectful relationships that go beyond material wealth. This conversation is especially relevant in the South African context where the unemployment rate rose to 32.9% early this year, with youth unemployment at an even worse standing at 62.4%.  These figures highlight the structural inequalities that often place immense pressure on the few who "make it," particularly in black families, where success can unintentionally become a source of division rather than unity. Tune in to challenge your perspective on success, family, and the emotional cost of inequality.  
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  You Are Not Your Emotions: A Guide to Inner Safety 23.05.2025 39мин

  In this episode, I open up about my personal journey with anxiety and the emotional waves that often come with it. Here, I share the tools and practices that have helped me not only manage anxiety but also navigate a wide range of emotions with more clarity and compassion. But this isn't just about learning how to live through difficult emotions—it's about strength, growth, and learning to build a safe, nurturing relationship with your inner self.  Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply curious about emotional wellness, this episode is a gentle reminder that emotions are powerful, but they don't have to overpower you. With the right tools, you can learn to soothe your inner world, rather than silence it or let it take the wheel. This episode is for anyone seeking to create a safe emotional home within themselves—one they don't have to be afraid to return to.   FOLLOW US:   IG:https://www.instagram.com/an_extraordinary_takeigsh=MXF4bGd0bmZta242MA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@an_extraodinary_take Tik tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sbo_ngubane_cossa?_t=ZM-8vc1YkBGrun&_r=1  
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  What Fulfills You? 15.05.2025 36мин

  What if finding the balance' in life isn't about finally tipping the scales even? What if it's not even about finally figuring out how to show up at 100% for all the roles you occupy in your life. On this episode I share my own journey of discovering how prioritising work above all else, didn't quite turn out the way I had thought or hoped and how this taught me the importance of prioritising what really matters...  Of course, there's no one size fits all when it comes to this, and we've all heard enough about 'finding the balance' to know that it's not about 50/50; all that matters is figuring out what really feeds you and what allows you to be at your best so you can start sowing where your soul reaps the most. Thanks for tuning in. FOLLOW US:   IG:https://www.instagram.com/an_extraordinary_takeigsh=MXF4bGd0bmZta242MA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@an_extraodinary_take Tik tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sbo_ngubane_cossa?_t=ZM-8vc1YkBGrun&_r=1      
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  For The Daughters Who Are Triggered By Mother's Day 11.05.2025 8мин

  Dear Extraordinary Tribe Welcome to the very first edition of our monthly newsletter for An Extraordinary Take! Each month, I get to choose one episode that had the biggest impact on me and put on my writing hat so I can share my deepest reflections and some behind the scenes insights on the topic in a letter to you. This concept feels like such a lofty task considering how deeply meaningful each episode was for me but seeing that the first installment of this letter is in May, it only feels fitting that I pick the episode that had a profound impact on not just me, but many of you who are navigating their own challenging and unique relationships with your mothers. Today I share with you my very raw, vulnerable and mixed feelings about Mother's Day. This letter was particularly difficult for me write for but I have no doubt that it healed some parts of me and that it may do the same for you, should you be willing.  This inaugural letter is available to everyone, but future editions will be exclusive to our subscribers only, so make sure you subscribe so you don't miss the next one, it's completely free.  If you would like to read the letter visit our substack page: https://substack.com/@anextraordinarytake/note/c-116288292?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=p3q9o I hope you enjoy this deeper look into the episode and find the additional insights both engaging and enlightening. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey, please share it with others who may be impacted by it too.