Wide Awake Podcast
Wide Awake Podcast is a show that explores the human side of people from all walks of life, including politicians, celebrities, gangsters, and murderers. It aims to challenge preconceived ideas and biases by looking behind the mask of these individuals. The podcast is produced by the Africa Podcast Network and features interviews that reveal the common humanity shared by all.
Episodes
Raised by Her Kidnapper for 17 Years: Zephany Nurse Story
In this episode of The Wide Awake Podcast, I interview Zephany Nurse, also known as Miché Solomon, whose extraordinary story will leave you speechless. Zephany was abducted from Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town when she was just two days old in 1997. For roughly 17 years, she was raised by a woman named Lavona Solomon, who kidnapped her, while her real parents searched tirelessly for her.
As Z
Former Satanic Leaders Convert to Christianity
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I spoke with Riaan Swiegelaar and Adri Norton, former leaders of the South African Satanic Church. They shared their journeys from Satanism to Christianity, highlighting profound encounters with Jesus that transformed their lives.
Adri opened up about her struggle with identity and acceptance within Christianity, which led her to the Satanic Church and u
Duduzane Zuma Speaks on Putin, Jacob Zuma, Gupta Scandal, and His Controversial Past
In this episode of the Wide Awake podcast, I sat down with Duduzane Zuma, the son of former South African president Jacob Zuma. We had a deep and wide-ranging conversation that covered everything from his childhood in Mozambique and what it was like growing up with a father like Zuma in a family with six wives and 24 siblings, to his encounters with Vladimir Putin and Robert Mugabe.
We also touch
Mmusi Maimane On Leaving The DA, Julius Malema, Cyril Ramaphosa & 2024 Elections
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I spoke with Mmusi Maimane, the former leader of the Democratic Alliance and the current leader of Build One South Africa. We talked about the reasons behind Mmusi's departure from the DA, his predictions for the outcome of the 2024 elections in South Africa, and discussed major issues like Load Shedding, Crime & Corruption, Cyril Ramaphosa, the National
Former Leader Exposes The Satanic Church
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had a conversation with Riaan Swiegelaar, the former leader of the South African Satanic Church. We explored his journey from being a Satanist to embracing Christianity after a profound encounter with Jesus during a satanic ritual. Riaan also shared the immense challenges he faced while leaving the church, including a lawsuit filed against him by other
Gayton Mckenzie Exposes Joshlin Smith Case, Jacob Zuma, Orania & Elections
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I spoke to Gayton McKenzie, who is the leader of one of South Africa’s largest political parties, the Patriotic Alliance. We discussed former President Jacob Zuma and his new political party called MK. Additionally, we delved into his visit to Orania and his efforts to combat illegal immigration. However, the main topic we discussed, and the reason I invi
Wayde Van Niekerk On His Comeback, Olympics, Springboks & World Record
In this episode, I sat down with the most well-rounded sprinter of all time, Wayde Van Niekerk. We talked about his road to recovery after suffering from an injury. His unbelievable comeback and reclaiming the number 1 rank in the world. We explored his historic world record breaking run at the Rio Olympics, growing up alongside his cousin Cheslin Kolbe, the Springboks victory at the Rugby World C
Ex-Gangster Meets The Mayor Of Cape Town
In this episode, I sat down with the Mayor of Cape Town and Ex-Gangster Thando. We talked about some of the most significant issues facing South Africa, including the unfortunate reality of people living in Cape Town's most forgotten and dangerous areas, the rising crime rate, the South African military, the housing crisis in South Africa, corruption, education, gangsterism, the impact of load she
Investigating The Devilsdorp CULT KILLERS With A True Crime Expert
In this weeks episode I spoke to the host of the True Crime South Africa podcast, Nicole Engelbrecht about the Krugersdorp cult killers.During this episode we delve deep into the disturbing and twisted world of these Killers and the shocking events that transpired.The Krugersdorp Cult Killers, also known as the "Electus Per Deus" cult, shocked the world with their gruesome crimes and their warped
Gayton McKenzie Gets HEATED About Illegal Foreigners, Death Penalty, Racism & Past Crimes
In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview Gayton McKenzie, the leader of the Patriotic Alliance. Our conversation delved into a wide range of topics, starting with his early involvement in criminal activities that ultimately led to a 17-year prison sentence. We explored his experiences within the prison system, where he notably received special treatment and was regarded as a king behind
Ellen Pakkies Opens Up About Killing Her Son
In this weeks episode I speak to Ellen Pakkies. She was known as a loving mother, a religious woman and an upstanding member of her community in Lavender Hill. But on a September morning in 2007, she killed her own son Abie by strangling him with a rope.In this episode we discuss Ellen's early years and the horrific abuse she went through, how addiction destroyed her family, the days leading up to
John Steenhuisen on Corruption, Gangs, Drugs & Prison, $4 Million Couch Scandal, Zuma & KZN Riots
In this week's episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I had a conversation with the leader of the DA, John Steenhuisen. During our chat we discussed John's epic clashes with Cyril Ramaphosa in Parliament, the questionable release of Jacob Zuma from prison, the riots that erupted in Durban and Cape Town, Cyril Ramaphosa's $4 Million Couch Scandal, John's thoughts on becoming the president of South Afric
Notorious Leaders Of The Bad Boys Gang
In this week’s episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I had a chat with the leaders of the Bad Boys gang and Pastor Andie. During this episode we talk about what it was like growing up in one of South Africa’s most dangerous areas, how they joined and eventually became the leaders of the Bad Boys gang, life inside South Africa’s most notorious prison, how they make money for the gangs, corruption in So
HEATED DEBATE: Penuel Vs Josh on Andrew Tate, Cult Leaders & Kanye West
In this week’s episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had a chat with Penuel Lungelo Mlotshwa, self-proclaimed "God Penuel". During this episode we talked about Penuel’s journey of self discovery, his pursuit of knowledge and identity, how he made and lost millions of his own and other people’s money, being reborn as a God and starting his own “religion” which he calls a Cult.We also had a heated de
Will Linley's Rapid Rise To Fame
From Social media to one of South Africa’s fastest rising musical talents. This week I speak to Will Linley. This chat was one of the most insightful discussions I’ve had about the music industry and what it takes to become successful at such a young age. During this episode we discussed what Spotify actually pays artists, the story behind the song that put Will on the map, advice for other artist
South Africa's Most Feared Cartoonist: Zapiro
In this week's episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Jonathan Shapiro, South Africa's most acclaimed and controversial political cartoonist, better known as Zapiro. Despite facing lawsuits, death threats, and enduring a stint in South Africa's notorious Pollsmoor prison, he remains unwavering in expressing his opinions and fearlessly confronting influential figure
Shocking Reality Inside South Africa's Township Hospitals
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I spoke to social media influencer and medical doctor, Dr Siya.We spoke about how Siya gained over 3 million followers on social media, the reality inside South Africa's township hospitals, how Siya survived a brutal attack by Skinheads in Russia, sex education and medical misconceptions, the strangest injuries he has treated and much more. Hosted by
Telling My Dad I Relapsed After 4 Years of Sobriety
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had a heartfelt conversation with my dad. We delve into his upbringing, the challenges he faced, and how he emerged as the amazing person he is today. We also talked about my recent trip to America and shared stories about some of our favourite guests from previous episodes.During this episode we also discussed my journey as a recovering addict, the cha
Notorious Ex-Gangster Shares Mind-Blowing Life Story
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to former gang member, Thando. His journey is unique because instead of joining a street gang he chose to stand alone in Africa’s most dangerous city, Cape Town.During this episode we discussed his childhood and how he transformed from an innocent kid to a ruthless gangster. Thando also shared his experiences inside Pollsmoor, South Africa's
Gang Expert Takes Us Inside South Africa's Underworld
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dariusz Dziewanski. Dariusz is an experienced researcher, journalist, and author who has dedicated the last fifteen years to international development and humanitarian work.He specialises in research, monitoring, evaluation, and learning, with his main focus on gangs. His extensive academic research has resulted in the
Jack Parow UNCENSORED
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jack Parow, a South African rapper, actor, and record producer who has deep Afrikaans roots. Our conversation covered a range of interesting topics, including how Jack first discovered his passion for rap music, his personal journey from an ordinary kid to one of the most well-known artists in South Africa, his experien
The Real “War Dogs” Arms Dealer
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to former arms dealer, David Packouz. David was an arms dealer during the War in Afghanistan. As a partner of AEY Inc, a prominent weapons contractor for the U.S. Department of Defence, he and his friend Efraim Diveroli landed a $300 million government contract in 2007 to provide ammunition and weapons to the Afghan Army. At this time David w
Britains 'Hardest Geezer' Running Across Africa
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Russ Cook, an extreme athlete widely known as Britain's Hardest Geezer. During our conversation, Russ shared how running helped him overcome a difficult period in his life. In recent years, he has transformed into a superhuman athlete and achieved remarkable feats. For instance, he made history by completing a 71-
Notorious Mafia Hitman Larry Mazza
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast, I had the opportunity to interview Larry Mazza, a former Mafia hitman who worked closely with Greg Scarpa, the notorious captain of the Colombo crime family, also known as the Grim Reaper. Larry has publicly confessed to taking the lives of four individuals and is rumoured to have been involved in approximately 25 additional homicides.During our conversat
The Dirtiest Cop in New York's History: Mike Dowd
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Michael Dowd. He is considered the most Corrupt Cop In New York’s history. During his career Dowd stole money and dealt drugs while patrolling the streets of Brooklyn. He was also a criminal associate of the Diaz organisation. When he was eventually caught he was facing life in prison and upon his release a True Crime documentary called Th
FBI's Most Wanted Con-Artist: Matthew Cox
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Ex-Con Artist, Matthew Cox! Matthew is a former mortgage broker and convicted mortgage fraudster. During his time as a con-artist Matthew defrauded banks for roughly 55 million dollars. Due to his crimes Matthew was eventually put on the secret services most wanted list. When he was caught he was facing a sentence of up to 125 years in prison. H
The Real Life Joker
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Lawrence Sullivan also known as Joker Gang! Lawrence is a controversial social media personality based in Florida. He first went viral after he was arrested and his mug shot was released to the public. In this episode we talk about the meaning behind his face tattoos, multiple arrests, friendship with the Island Boys, childhood and the rel
Smuggling 30 Million Pounds of Marijuana into America
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to former drug smuggler Tim Mcbride. Tim is a former Marijuana smuggler living on the edge of the Florida Everglades. From 1979 to 1989 he ran Southern waters and the Caribbean with a band of modern day pirates known by locals as Salt Water Cowboys. At a very young age Tim became the boss of an operation that was responsible for smuggling roughly 3
Shot and Left for Dead In The Amazon Rainforest
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I spoke to explorer, adventurer and public speaker, Davey Du Plessis. Two months into a solo source to sea navigation of the Amazon river Davey was ambushed and shot 4 times within the isolated jungles of Peru. The adventure turned into an intense moment to moment struggle to survive as he made his way, wounded, through the dense jungle, seeking rescue and
Inside Die Antwoord with Former Member G Boy
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to G Boy who is a former member of the band Die Antwoord. We talked about how he met Die Antwoord, How they treated him, an incident where he was set on fire without the proper training, Die Antwoord's gangster movie, dancing in front of a Cheetah for a music video, a big fight he had with Ninja, why he left Die Antwoord and so much more... Hosted
Surviving A Double Great White Shark Attack
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to double Great White shark attack survivor, Shannon Ainslie! We talked about the day the attack took place, how he survived, his injuries, another massive shark attack that happened during a shark week episode, the biggest great white shark alive called Deep Blue, Shannon's Orca encounter, surfing in the Arctic and much more! Hosted by Simplecast,
Homeless Soldier Living With Gangsters
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to a homeless soldier called Gavin about a tragic event that happened while he was in Rwanda. This event lead to him spending many years in some of South Africa's most notorious prisons. We also speak about the events that lead to him living on the streets, his struggle with addiction, how he got shot during a fight with a gang member and muc
Homeless Man's Life On The Streets
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to a homeless man that has been living on the streets for over 10 years! We talk about his drug addiction, life on the streets, spending time in prison, getting shot during a gang fight and much more... Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
South Africa's Most Notorious Serial Killer: Moses Sithole
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Nicole Engelbrecht, host of the True Crime South Africa podcast, about the life and crimes of South Africa's most notorious serial killer: Moses Sithole. Moses killed between 37-76 people before being caught. We speak about his life before becoming a killer, his crimes, how he was arrested, his prison sentence and much more... Hosted by Simpleca
Inside Pollsmoor Maximum Security Prison
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Kieron Reddy who is a warden at one of the most dangerous prisons in the world, Pollsmoor Prison.Pollsmoor is a maximum security prison that holds some of South Africa's most dangerous criminals. The prison is known for having horrific living conditions and is the home to one of the most feared gangs in the world, the Numbers Gang. The prison wa
Die Antwoord Exposed (Part 2)
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Edwin from the Youtube channel Edwin's Generation. We dive into Die Antwoord's scandals over the years including the incident with Zheani. The time Die Antwoord attacked Andy Butler at a festival and why Ninja and Yolandi adopted Tokkie. We also talked about their involvement with the Numbers Gang and how their career has been affected by their
Siv Ngesi Goes Off The Rails
In this incredible episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Siv Ngesi. We talk about boxing Cassper Nyovest, His childhood, his latest movie- The Women King, Kanye West and Andrew Tate, advice for men, his thoughts on women's rights and much more... Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Nelson Mandela's Prison Guard
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Christo Brand. He was a Prison Guard on Robben Island and Pollsmoor Prison during apartheid and during that time he formed a friendship with Nelson Mandela. In this podcast we speak about how he became a prison guard, his friendship with Nelson Mandela, Mandela's life in prison, and a secret that Christo and Mandela had to keep for over 20
Mr. Beast's Girlfriend: Thea Booysen
In this wild episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I spoke to Thea Booysen and how she ended up with YouTube superstar Jimmy Donaldson, more commonly known as Mr Beast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Mmusi Maimane Interview
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Mmusi Maimane about running for president, growing up in Soweto, Jacob Zuma, Corruption and so much more. During the filming of this episode we also experienced Load Shedding which was unexpected but incredibly funny. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for a
Die Antwoord Exposed By Adopted Son Tokkie
In this Episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Gabriel Du Preez also known as Tokkie. Tokkie was born in Feitas which is a suburb in Johannesburg. In 2010 he was introduced to one of South Africa's most successful music groups, Die Antwoord by filmmaker Ben Jay Crossmen.He was adopted by Yolandi Visser and Ninja when he was nine years old along with his younger sister Meisie. Their older bro
Dating The Devilsdorp Cult Killer
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Marizka Coetzer about how she went from a journalist that was covering the Krugersdorp Cult Killings to dating one of the murderers. Get ready because this episode is wild! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Rachel Kolisi Interview
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Rachel Kolisi about family life, the world cup, social media backlash, save Siya's story, gender based violence and so much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Recovering Addict Shares His Story
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Tommy. He is a recovering drug addict from the UK and we actually met in rehab. We speak about when he started using drugs, getting arrested, rehab, family life, getting sober and so much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Notorious Gangster Turner Adams Returns
Notorious Gangster Turner Adams is back. We speak about his 18 year prison sentence in one of the worlds most dangerous prisons, Pollsmoor. We also talked about how he became one of the leaders of the Numbers Gang in prison, his tattoos, gang fights, life outside of prison, working with filmmakers and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about ou
Founder Of Satanic Church Gives His Life To Jesus
Back on the podcast is the co-founder of the first Satanic Church in South Africa, Riaan Swiegelaar. We speak about why he turned his back on Satanism after meeting Jesus during a Satanic ritual! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Photographing The Worlds Most Dangerous Places
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to war photographer and photo journalist Ryan Jacobs about documenting the worlds most dangerous conflict zones. We also speak about his plans to become the first person of colour from Africa to complete a solo Atlantic row! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal
Life As A Child Soldier
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Mdalaga about how he became a Child Soldier during the Civil War in Burundi. We also speak about how he dealt with the loss of his family, being lost in the Congo rain forrest for months and his long journey to South Africa. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of person
Raised In The Suburbs To Living In A Township
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Jason Wolf about why he decided to move from a wealthy suburb in Cape Town to Langa Township. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Man Overboard Survives 28-Hours at Sea
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Brett Archibald about how he survived over 28 hours at sea after he fell overboard in the middle of a stormy night in the Indian Ocean. Brett tells this story with such intensity you would think it's you that's swimming for your life in the middle of the ocean. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about o
Surviving South Africa's Most Notorious Cult
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Erika Bornman and Celimpilo Malinga about their experience of living in a South African cult called Kwasizabantu. We start the podcast by talking about their past and how they ended up at KSB. We then dive into some of the shocking details that surround this cult. Make sure you listen to this episode all the way through so you don't miss out on
The Gang Pastor
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Andie Steele Smith who is most commonly known as the Gang Pastor. We talk about the work he does in the Cape Flats and how he managed to bring rival gangs together during Lockdown. The work he did during lockdown was talked about in publications around the world from the BBC to The Daily show with Trevor Noah. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsW
Ex-Gang Member: Shot In The Head By His Own Brother
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Denzil Moses. We talk about what it was like growing up in a family full of rival gang members, how he survived a gunshot to the head by his own brother and how he managed to turn his life around. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Former Leader Of The Numbers Prison Gang Welcome Witbooi
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Welcome Witbooi. We talked about how he went from a 12 year old runner for a gang in the Cape Flats to being the leader of the Numbers Gang in Pollsmoor prison! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Inside The Mind Of An Addict
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Jarryd Smith about how he went from a privileged background to living on the streets. From getting arrested 8 times to working in a brothel and his near death experiences. We speak about all of that and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for
Founder Of The First Satanic Church In South Africa
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Riaan Swiegelaar who is one of the co-founders of the first Satanic Church in South Africa. We talk about when he started the church, the backlash they received on social media, rituals, sacrifice and much more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for a
Quadruple Amputee Shaninlea Visser
In this weeks episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I talk to Shaninlea about how she became a Quadruple Amputee from Sepsis after being bitten by a Mongoose. Donate to Shaninlea’s Back A Buddy and help her walk again! - https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion... Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Raised In A South African CULT
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I speak to Erika Bornman. We talk about her experience of being raised in a South African Cult called Kwasizabantu. We also discuss how she adapted to life outside of KSB and MUCH more... Disclaimer: the statements, views and opinions expressed by and discussed with guests on the Wide Awake Podcast are those of the guests themselves and do not necessarily
Notorious Ex-Gangster Turner Adams
In this episode of the Wide Awake Podcast I spoke to ex-gangster, Turner Adams. We talked about life behind bars in one of South Africas most dangerous prisons, Pollsmoor, where he spent over 18 years. We also talked about growing up in the Cape Flats, his tattoos and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal d
Raising A Drug Addict - Me
In this emotional and inspiring episode of the Wide Awake Podcast we talk about how my parents helped me get through my addiction. From rehab, car accidents and getting arrested. We talk about everything in a truly unfiltered and raw way. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
