Sisterhood of the Traveling Mgowo

Every August, we're reminded to celebrate women. But somewhere along the way, it's easy for the real meaning of Women's Month to get lost behind campaigns, discounts, and social media posts.In this episode, we're asking what Women's Month should actually look like in South Africa today. We reflect on the legacy of the 1956 Women's March, unpack the issues that continue to affect women across the country, and have an honest conversation about everything from gender-based violence and economic inequality to the rise of online gambling and its impact on young women.We also talk about the role we all have to play beyond posting online. What does it mean to show up for our communities? How do we become more engaged in the places we live? And what does meaningful support actually look like once Women's Month is over?

Have you ever felt like you really knew someone from the internet?This week, we're joined by Yolanda and Yaya as we unpack parasocial relationships and what it's like to have thousands of people feel connected to you after watching your life unfold on national television.From their time on Big Brother to navigating life as public figures, we talk about fan culture, setting boundaries online, and the fine line between being relatable and being accessible. We also reflect on the pressure of living in the public eye, staying true to yourself, and what it means to build a community without losing yourself in the process.

Birthdays have a way of making you take stock.One minute you're making birthday wish lists, and the next you're wondering if you're where you thought you'd be by now. In this episode, we talk about everything birthdays bring up - from the pressure to celebrate, social media expectations, and the cost of getting everyone together, to the excitement of getting older and becoming more comfortable in who you are.We also reflect on what we're carrying into this next chapter: setting better boundaries, being clearer about what we need, and choosing to celebrate growth over perfection.

Death is never an easy topic to talk about, but it's one of the most important conversations we can have.In this episode, we unpack the emotional and financial realities of funerals in South Africa, the burden that often falls on families when there isn't a plan in place, and why having honest conversations about death can be one of the greatest acts of care for the people we leave behind.We also explore how cultural expectations can add pressure during an already difficult time, and what it really means to prepare for the inevitable with dignity and intention.This episode is brought to you in partnership with Metropolitan. We take a look at the Metropolitan No Lapse Funeral Growth Plan, a flexible funeral solution designed for people with irregular incomes, including freelancers and those in the gig economy, and discuss how products like these can help ease the financial burden on loved ones when it matters most.

In this episode, we unpack the realities of navigating a career pivot and the impact it can have on your mental health. From the uncertainty of starting over to the financial pressures that often come with choosing a different path, we explore what it means to prioritise yourself while managing the practical realities of adulthood.We also discuss the challenges of freelancing, dealing with debt and payment obligations during difficult seasons, and why honest communication is one of the most important tools you can have when you're in a tight spot. Whether it's speaking to clients, loved ones, or financial institutions, asking for help and communicating your circumstances can make all the difference.

In this episode, we dive into some of the difficult conversations happening in South Africa right now - from xenophobia and Afrophobia to identity, belonging, and the realities many young people are facing.We reflect on the pressure of navigating adulthood, the importance of giving ourselves grace, and what it means to take care of ourselves while trying to survive in a challenging environment.We also unpack some of the myths around migration, public services, and inequality, while having an honest conversation about where frustration is directed and how we can move forward as a country.A thoughtful conversation about pride, pain, responsibility, and the South Africa we all share.

In this episode, we're joined by Sinesipho's younger sister Nicky for a conversation about what sisterhood has looked like throughout the different stages of our lives.We chat about the realities of being the oldest versus the youngest sibling, how birth order can shape the roles we take on in our families, and the ways those roles have influenced who we are today. From childhood misunderstandings and sibling disagreements to learning how to support one another as adults, we reflect on the journey of growing up together.

In this mid-year check-in, we're getting honest about what it feels like to be in the "thick of failure". From navigating the weight of an ADHD diagnosis to rejecting the pressure of burnout culture, we discuss what happens when high agency meets low motivation. Whether you're "busy resting" or struggling to model agency when you've lost interest, this episode is a reminder to anchor your self-worth in who you are, not what you achieve.

In this episode, skincare influencer and Nelo Skin founder Luna Nqiwa joins the show to demystify adult acne and foundational skincare. Breaking down the common triggers (from hormones and hygiene to diet and environmental pollution) the discussion reframes acne as a chronic condition to be managed rather than a war to be won. Luna provides an essential roadmap for building an effective routine, explaining the necessity of tailored cleansers, hydrators, and the non-negotiable use of broad-spectrum sunscreen.

In this episode of we are joined by our guest, Mbuso, for a candid conversation about navigating the "streets" of Johannesburg during the winter. The discussion moves from reflections on city identity and the creative scene to a deep dive into modern dating dynamics and emotional survival.

As the weather shifts and the days get shorter, many of us start to feel a familiar heaviness. In this episode, we're having a real conversation about navigating "the funk", from identifying the early warning signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) to managing the overwhelming weight of overstimulation.

In this week's episode, we revisit a conversation we had seven years ago and reflect on just how much life has changed since then. From our mid-twenties to our early thirties, we talk about the personal and professional shifts that shaped us — motherhood, navigating deep loss, and learning to move away from loud, half-formed opinions toward a life that feels more grounded, intentional, and private. We also share why having a strong community matters, and how we've come to value the humanity and effort behind the journey, not just the outcome

In this episode of Sisterhood of the Traveling Mgowo, we delve into the concept of the "passive woman" and the impact of passivity on personal development and community. We explore how societal structures, specifically patriarchal conditioning, often encourage women to remain passive to be considered "good" or desirable

This week, we expand on the idea of community and how we show up in the spaces that hold us. If the price of community is inconvenience, how much are we paying before we ask our community to pay it forward?Listen and join the conversation in the comments below. Follow for more @smgowo on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Navigating adulthood means outgrowing things, people and spaces that no longer fit who we are becoming. This conversation delves into the responsibility we all individually have to cultivate our own sense of belonging as adults - it is up to us to find the spaces where we feel most like ourselves. Follow us @smgowo on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.

What happens when our social media feeds make us more jealous instead of more inspired? In a digital world geared to show us constant imagery about the how the other side lives, it is difficult not to get consumed by feelings of lack and inadequacy - the gateway to envy. This week, we discuss and maybe even intellectualise emotion to get more comfortable with it in an effort to recognise it and move past it. When last did you confront your own envy? Let us know below! Find us @smgowo on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for more.

This week we ask: we're always screaming “be real”… but what does that even mean?We unpack our relationship with authenticity, what it means when people in our lives are not being real and how quickly we can resist it when it's uncomfortable or costs us something.

We regret to announce the passing of “the squad.”

Why do some people withhold when they have enough to give?In this episode, we get into something we've all experienced but struggled to name —rationing. The quiet, calculated way people hold back resources, opportunities, information, or support based on what they think you have or don't have. The generosity that comes with conditions attached. The help that never quite arrives.We unpack where this behaviour comes from, what it says about the people who do it, and share our own experiences of being on the receiving end of it. Because this is something that happens in workplaces, in friendships, in families — and we think it's time we talked about it openly.

In our very first episode of this new chapter, we sit down to do what we do best: talk. Honestly, openly, and without a filter. We get into where life has taken us since you last heard from us, what's changed, what hasn't, and why — after everything — we knew we had to come back to this microphone.Ngumbuyo ke Lo. We're back.

So... we need to have a little chat. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smgowo/support

One thing about us, we will reflect! It's good to be back and on this episode we catch you up on all things SMgowo as well as some reflections on social media and how we have been using it. We are also introducing a new segment where we read out some listener questions and comments and hopefully try and address them! Stay tuned for part 2. Don't forget to rate our podcast on your favourite streaming platforms and follow us on IG, Youtube and Twitter @SMgowo! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smgowo/support

The episode title peaks for itself. We try to reflect on what good identifying red flags does for us... It's a whole lot tougher than we think. Don't forget to follow us on the socials @SMgowo and rate us on your favourite podcast streaming platform. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smgowo/support

Happy New Year! In this episode we reflect on the year that was, speak good things on the year to come and rant a little. Don't forget to follow us on IG, Tiktok and Twitter @Smgowo as well as rate our podcast on your preferred podcast streaming platforms! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smgowo/support

Today we talk about stepping outside of ourselves and our actions and behaviours to see how we could be doing something wrong. Over the last few years we've received a few requests for merch - we finally feel brave enough to explore this. Please let us know what you'd be interested in. We really appreciate your support. We also announced the winner of our competition. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

Firstly, check out that new new! On this episode, we talk about the toll it takes to be vulnerable and how frankly tiring it can be to open yourself up so much. We also catch you up on the new look as well as the competition for those who guessed all the snippets correctly and snagged an extra point for guessing what the change would be. We're also thinking of putting up some merch. Let us know what you think. Credit to Qondile Dlamini (Qew Doodles on IG) for our beautiful new look. This episode was shot at Lutcha Studios. Check them out at https://lutcha.com/ourstudio/ and make a booking for your podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

With Sniper navigating motherhood and Mixo navigating school, we can get lost in trying grasp ownership over our success. Check us out as we talk about success and redefining what it looks like now. This episode is brought to you by Momentum for their #SheOwnsHerSuccess campaign. Please follow Momentum @MomentumZA across all social media platforms. Don't forget to follow us on @smgowo on our socials as well as to rate us on your preferred podcast platform. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

One thing about Monday, it will creep up on you while you're minding your business on Sunday. On this episode we talk about ‘Sunday blues' and that anxiousness you feel ahead of work. Please don't forget to rate us on your preferred streaming platforms and to follow us on the socials at @smgowo Title loosely translated: I've got anxiety/I am anxious --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

Part 2 is here and so is our new host! On this episode we catch you all up on the last few months and the changes we have been going through and how we have been dealing with them. Please don't forget to rate us on your preferred streaming platforms and to follow us on the socials at @SMgowo --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

Our new host is here! This episode we catch you all up on the last few months and the changes we have been going through. Zoom interrupted us so Part 2 will drop soon. Please don't forget to rate us on your preferred streaming platforms and to follow us on the socials at @SMgowo --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

Welcome back to another episode of SMgowo. This episode is a little different. What happens when you breakup with a friend and something tragic happens to them? Do you reach out? Do you let them be? Help Mixo figure out what to do. Dont forget to follow us on Twitter, IG and Tiktok @SMgowo --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

On this episode we talk about The Tinder Swindler, (romantic) loneliness and the high horse industrial complex. Don't forget to check us out on our socials @SMgowo --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

Welcome to season 2 of SMgowo! On this episode we reflect on the previous year and what we have learned. Don't forget to check us out on Twitter and IG @SMgowo and please rate our podcast on your preferred podcast platforms. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

We're back! On this episode, we catch you up on what's been going on with us and why we took a little hiatus. Don't forget to follow us on IG and Twitter @Smgowo --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

With the seasons changing, tough times want to last. On this episode, we talk about some ways we are trying to get through this season. Our producer Menzi is crowdfunding for the creation of his graphic novel "Mount Olympus". If you listen to and love SMgowo, please read up on it more and donate here: https://jumpstarter.co.za/projects/mount-olympus-graphic-novel/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

On this episode we discuss the fallacy of choosing kind men. Our producer Menzi is crowdfunding for the creation of his graphic novel Mount Olympus. If you listen and love SMgowo, please read up on it more and donate here https://jumpstarter.co.za/projects/mount-olympus-graphic-novel/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

This week we talk about letting go of the shame we feel when it comes to expressing or acknowledging our needs. Our producer Menzi is crowdfunding for the creation of his graphic novel Mount Olympus. If you listen and love SMgowo, please read up on it more and donate here https://jumpstarter.co.za/projects/mount-olympus-graphic-novel/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

Yeah things are bad. We talk about what's been happening over the past couple of weeks and touch on bullying, our experience with it and much more. #JusticeForLulu #JusticeForLufuno --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

What a month, chile! Subscribe to our Youtube channel and check us out on our socials @SMgowo --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

In this episode, we discuss International Women's Month, the spaces that have held us because of women, what we wish we knew as younger women, and how grateful we are for the women in our lives. S/O to Levis Haus of Strauss Africa for letting us shoot in their space and for the drip. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/smgowo/support

On this episode, we discuss the end of relationships as we end off February and our series about love. We also announce the winners of our birthday Instax giveaway! Don't forget to follow us on IG and Twitter @Smgowo as well as like, comment and subscribe to our Youtube channel.

This week we speak about letting yourself down in love, dealing with the consequences, and picking yourself up again.

On this episode we talk and vent a bit about loneliness, love and community. We also have a great 2nd birthday giveaway in store. Check out our IG and Twitter to find out more about the competition.

Happy new year (we know it's Feb). On this episode we are catching up with one another as well as what has been happening on social media.

Merry Christmas! Here are our reflections for the year of 2020. Share some of yours with us and don’t forget to follow us on SMgowo on IG and Twitter.

On this episode, we’ve got Mashudu Modau who talks to us about his journey through podcasting. We figured this might be helpful for anyone looking to start a podcast next year. Enjoy and don’t forget to follow us on our socials at @SMgowo

Meet Kingsley. If you’ve been in a former “Model C” school institution in SA, you will deeply relate to Kingsley in tonight’s final #SmallAxe anthology film on #BBCBrit. Before tonight’s episode, though, make sure you catch our review episode this afternoon

On this episode, we discuss film 4: Alex Wheatle which so far is looking like our favourite episode! Check out Small Axe on BBC Brit (DSTV channel 120) every Monday at 8pm. You can also check the episodes out on Catch Up.

Check this out if you want to hear 28 minutes of Mixo talking about her crush, John Boyega. Check out Small Axe on BBC Brit (DSTV channel 120) every Monday at 8pm. You can also check the episodes out on Catch Up.

This episode is brought to you by BBC Studios SA as we discuss the Small Axe anthology film series directed by Steve McQueen starring Letitia Wright and John Boyega to name a few! Check out Small Axe on BBC Brit (DSTV 12) every Monday at 21:00.

On this episode we talk what’s kept us away for so long. We’re happy to be back!