The Feminist Bar Podcast

In this episode of The Feminist Bar, host Tinatswe Mhaka is joined by researcher and queer feminist Makanaka Tuwe for a rich conversation on belonging, home, and identity from an African feminist lens. What does it mean to belong when you're far from home? Together, Tinatswe and Makanaka unpack the complex emotional and political geographies of belonging—exploring how land, language, ancestry, and migration shape how we define home. The episode reflects on navigating the diaspora as queer African feminists, grappling with distance and the longing for roots, while also embracing chosen homes for safety, freedom, and opportunity. From ritual and food to storytelling and digital activism, they speak to the practices that help us stay connected to our ancestors, communities, and selves across borders. This is a conversation about holding multiple identities at once, critiquing home while still loving it, and building new definitions of where and how we belong. Follow The Feminist Bar: Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast Twitter/X: @thefeministbar Support us on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast

In this episode of The Feminist Bar, host Tinatswe Mhaka is joined by Gloria Chikaonda to explore what it means to create feminist art, content, and education in a digital age that often feels like it's turning against us. As social media expands access to storytelling and political discourse, it also becomes a battleground—where feminist creators face algorithmic suppression, coordinated harassment, and pushback from anti-woke, red pill, and reactionary movements. Together, Tinatswe and Gloria unpack the paradox of digital platforms: increased visibility comes with increased vulnerability. They reflect on how parasocial dynamics, virality, ego, and burnout shape the work—and what strategies can help feminist creators resist co-optation, censorship, and fatigue. From alternative platforms and digital security to community-led learning and archiving, this episode is a call to imagine new ways of creating and resisting in the face of a growing digital backlash. Follow The Feminist Bar: Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast Twitter/X: @thefeministbar Support us on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast

In this solo episode of The Feminist Bar, host Tinatswe Mhaka steps behind the mic for a reflective check-in. She shares thoughts on the current season of the podcast, the state of the development and NGO space, and the emotional weight of doing feminist work in spaces that are often extractive, underfunded, and contradictory. Tinatswe also offers some self-care strategies that are helping her navigate burnout and disillusionment, and shares a personal review of The Right to Sex by Amia Srinivasan—unpacking what resonated, what challenged her, and how the book speaks to contemporary feminist discourse on desire, access, and autonomy. It's a quiet, personal, and grounding episode for anyone needing a moment to pause, process, and realign. Follow The Feminist Bar: Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast Twitter/X: @thefeministbar Support on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast Follow The Feminist Bar Resistance Journal : https://tinatswe.substack.com/ 

In this episode of The Feminist Bar, host Tinatswe Mhaka and guest Michelle Mudawarima explore how society frames our understanding of money and how those narratives shape our personal relationships with spending, saving, and survival. The conversation dives into what it means to live within our means, how systemic barriers impact financial literacy, and how we can rethink financial empowerment through personal journeys, transformation, and collective care. They unpack the myths around money, the realities of navigating financial responsibility under capitalism, and how to build healthier, values-aligned relationships with money without shame or elitism. Tune in for a reflective, practical conversation about transforming how we approach financial literacy, survival, and abundance in a world that was never built with us in mind. Follow The Feminist Bar: Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast Twitter/X: @thefeministbar Support on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast

In this episode of The Feminist Bar, host Tinatswe Mhaka is joined by Dumi Gatsha for a powerful conversation on what solidarity really means in the midst of increasing political violence, burnout, and donor fatigue. Together, they explore how movements can resist division and co-optation while navigating scarcity, repression, and the emotional toll of doing this work. Dumi brings lived experience and political insight to a timely conversation on the contradictions of being praised but unsupported, the ways funding politics shape access and visibility, and how competition can fracture movements meant to thrive through collaboration. What does it take to build lasting solidarity under fire? What happens when survival requires performance? And can movements still resist without losing their edge? This episode holds space for hard truths about activism, while also imagining funding and solidarity models that are honest, inclusive, and sustainable. Follow the podcast on social media: Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast Twitter/X: @thefeministbar Support on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast

Hi everyone :)  Welcome to Behind the Bar, a personal segment to share and discuss what has been going on with the pod and behind the scenes. Episodes will be back next week, and here is some of what's been on my mind. Let's get into the second half of the season with a bang.

In this episode of The Feminist Bar, host Tinatswe Mhaka is joined by Bella Matambanadzo, a Zimbabwean feminist, writer, and movement builder. Bella shares her personal journey, reflecting on the history of feminist organizing in Zimbabwe and the power of storytelling as a tool for activism. From her early experiences in media and advocacy to her role in shaping regional feminist spaces, she offers deep insights into feminist life-building, movement sustainability, and the ways storytelling connects generations of activists. The conversation explores the challenges and victories of the Zimbabwean feminist movement, the importance of documenting feminist histories, and the transformative potential of narratives in resisting oppression and imagining new futures. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Nawi – Macroeconomics 101 The Charter of Feminist Principles for African Feminists Support & Stay Connected Follow The Feminist Bar on Instagram and Twitter Support the podcast on Patreon.

In this episode of The Feminist Bar, Tinatswe Mhaka and Sandra Mpanyira discuss the transformation of activism in the digital age. They explore how social media has enabled rapid mobilization and amplified marginalized voices, citing movements like the #BlackLivesMatter, and the Zimbabwe protests in 2018. However, they also address the pitfalls of performative activism, including superficial engagement and the spread of misinformation, as seen with #BlackoutTuesday and COVID-19 conspiracy theories. The conversation shifts to influencer culture, highlighting the positive role influencers play in raising awareness while acknowledging the risks of oversimplifying complex issues. Tinatswe and Sandra also discuss how to foster nuanced, in-depth conversations online and the importance of balancing speed with substance. Finally, they offer strategies for leveraging social media for effective activism, stressing the need for leaders on the ground and turning online energy into offline action. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own social media activism and engage intentionally. Stay connected through Twitter at @thefeministbar, Instagram at @thefeministbarpodcast, and support the podcast on Patreon at The Feminist Bar Podcast. Thanks for tuning in!

Host Tinatswe Mhaka is joined by Chido Musamirapamwe Siame and Melusi Dhlamini to discuss the evolving field of sexual pleasure medicine. Together, they unpack how this area of medicine is defined and approached, exploring its impact on personal lives, relationships, and broader societal narratives about intimacy and the body. This insightful conversation challenges stigma and highlights the importance of understanding sexual pleasure through a medical and feminist lens.

It's our 100th episode, and what a journey it's been! Thank you for tuning in, showing up, and being part of this growing community of feminists, thinkers, and changemakers. This isn't just a celebration of the podcast—it's a celebration of all of you who've made it possible. In this quick 2025 update, I'm sharing some thoughts on where we've been, what's coming next, and why you should come on the podcast this year! Let's discourse, chat, and make 2025 the year of even deeper, richer, and louder conversations.

In this episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka sits down with Zimbabwean author Chido Muchemwa to explore stories of home, family, and belonging. They dive into the complexities of why we leave home and why we stay, reflecting on the emotional experiences of being the one who leaves—or is left behind. Through the lens of Chido's recently published collection Who Will Bury You and Other Stories, they examine these themes in their own lives and the lives of those around them. Chido Muchemwa is a Zimbabwean writer based in Canada and the author of Who Will Bury You and Other Stories. A 2022 recipient of the Morland African Writing Scholarship, her work has appeared in The Baltimore Review, Canthius, and Humber Literary Review. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto, where her research explored queer histories and narratives in Zimbabwe. Follow Chido Muchemwa: Website: www.chidomuchemwa.com Twitter: @chidomuchemwa Instagram: @chidomuchemwa Follow The Feminist Bar: Instagram: @TheFeministBarPodcast Twitter: @TheFeministBar  

In this episode, we're diving into the rise of red pill content and its impact on our lives. We explore what red pill content is, how online misogyny has evolved over the years, and the way it intersects with patriarchy, feminism, and violence. We also discuss how these dynamics play out in online spaces and what it means to navigate them as activists, feminists, and queer individuals. Join us for this critical conversation on resisting misogyny and reclaiming digital spaces. If you would like to follow or support the podcast you can follow on:  Twitter: @TheFeministBar Instagram: @Thefeministbarpodcast Support Us on Patreon: The Feminist Bar

In this episode of The Feminist Bar Podcast, host Tinatswe Mhaka welcomes Thandi Gula-Ndebele to dive deep into the concept of shadow work. Together, they explore how confronting our childhood wounds and generational trauma can help us cultivate healthier relationships, both with ourselves and others. They discuss the importance of working on our inner self, healing from past pain, and breaking cycles passed down through parental relationships. For anyone curious about starting their own journey of shadow work, this episode offers guidance on the "how" and "why" of this transformative process. For more on Thandi's work: @phola.herbal on Instagram Learn more about shadow work: Conni's blog on shadow work Try a shadow work journal: Download here Follow us on Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast Support us on Patreon: The Feminist Bar

Let's talk about what is happening behind the scenes of the feminist bar, the host and many other things that could have been a diary entry. 

In this episode of The Feminist Bar Podcast, Tinatswe Mhaka sits down with guests from diverse spiritual backgrounds—an atheist, and an agnostic—to have an honest and engaging conversation about religion, deconstruction, and the journey toward self-discovery. They each share their personal experiences with religion and spirituality, exploring how these beliefs (or lack thereof) have shaped their understanding of self, relationships, and community. From navigating religious expectations to redefining spirituality in a more inclusive and open way, the discussion unpacks the beauty, challenges, and nuances of finding one's own path. Tune in to hear how each speaker's unique perspective adds depth to this rich conversation on faith, doubt, and connection. Support the podcast here. Follow us on Instagram. Follow us on Twitter.  

In this episode of The Feminist Bar Podcast, Tinatswe Mhaka sits down with Min'enhle Mguni to explore how porn and exploitative sexual content have shaped society's understanding of sex and intimacy. They delve into the centering of the male gaze, the exclusion of diverse body types, races, and identities, and how these portrayals can distort our perceptions of healthy sexual relationships. The conversation also touches on how shame and unrealistic expectations have influenced people's experiences with sex, and what can be done to promote more inclusive, realistic, and healthy conversations about intimacy. Follow us on Instagram: @thefeministbar Support us on Patreon: The Feminist Bar  

In this episode, we delve into access to justice for queer Zimbabwean women, girls, and non-binary folk. Our guests share their encounters with the formal justice system and civic institutions, revealing the deep challenges they face in a system that often ignores or mistreats them. In this episode, we discuss: Interactions with the formal justice system, from the police to the courts, and how queer individuals are frequently mistreated or dismissed when seeking protection or justice. The barriers to accessing legal remedies and the lack of supportive policies for LGBTQIA+ people in Zimbabwe. What an inclusive, just, and secure system would look like for queer individuals, and the collective dreams for a future where safety, security, and fairness are guaranteed for all. To learn more and dive deeper into the stories and reflections, you can download the SAFE report here. Credits: This episode was brought to you by Feminist Voices Zimbabwe, with the support of the Purposeful Fund. Hosted by: Tinatswe Mhaka Connect with us: Twitter: @thefeministbar Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast

In this episode, we dive into the digital world and explore the complexities of safety and security for queer Zimbabwean women, girls, and non-binary folk navigating online spaces. As social media becomes a double-edged sword, offering connection and risk, we hear stories from our community about the threats they face and how they fight to stay safe online. Our guests share experiences of being doxxed online, having their identities and private information exposed maliciously, and the powerful role of social media inThis episode sheds light on how queer individuals in Zimbabwe navigate the dangers of the digital world while seeking connection and solidarity. From online harassment to finding safe spaces, these stories highlight both the risks and the resilience required to survive in hostile online environments. To read more of these stories and reflections, you can download the SAFE report here. Credits: This episode was brought to you by Feminist Voices Zimbabwe, with the support of the Purposeful Fund. Hosted by: Tinatswe Mhaka Connect with us: Twitter: @thefeministbar Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast

In this episode of The Feminist Bar Podcast, we turn our attention to the deeply personal and often hidden struggles of family life and intimate relationships for queer Zimbabwean women and girls. Through stories shared in the latest story circle, our guests look candidly at how they navigate safety within their homes and relationships, spaces that should be safe but often aren't. Our guests open up about facing conversion methods from their families, such as being subjected to religious "cures" and exorcisms. the reality of fleeing home due to family rejection, only to encounter domestic violence in relationships where power dynamics and dependence can lead to toxic cycles, The lack of attention given to domestic violence within lesbian relationships, and how the support systems that exist often overlook or dismiss their experiences. To learn more and read the full reflections from this project, you can download the SAFE report here. Credits: This episode was brought to you by Feminist Voices Zimbabwe, with the support of the Purposeful Fund. Hosted by: Tinatswe Mhaka Connect with us: Twitter: @thefeministbar Instagram: @thefeministbarpodcast

In this episode of The Feminist Bar Podcast, we explore the complex realities of public safety and security for women, girls, and non-binary folk in Zimbabwe. Drawing from powerful stories shared during the recent story circles facilitated by Feminist Voices Zimbabwe and supported by Purposeful Fund, we delve into the lived experiences of navigating violence in public spaces. Our guests reflect on how they have confronted and resisted various forms of violence, from street harassment and police brutality to social stigma and marginalization. Through their narratives, we examine the intersectional challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities, especially LBQT women and girls, and the collective strategies they employ for survival and resistance in a hostile environment. To dive deeper into these stories and learn more about the reflections from the participants, you can download the full report here. Credits: This episode was brought to you by Feminist Voices Zimbabwe, with the support of the Purposeful Fund. Hosted by: Tinatswe Mhaka Connect with us: Twitter: @thefeministbar Instagram: @thefeministbar

Host Tinatswe Mhaka sits down with Chido Nyaruwata to break down everything you need to know about climate change. They explore what climate change is, why it impacts all of us, and why everyone should care. Chido and Tinatswe discuss the pressing realities of a changing climate and its effects on our communities, from extreme weather events to food security and social justice. This episode is an invitation to dive deep into an urgent conversation about our planet's future and what we can do to make a difference. Follow The Feminist Bar Podcast on Instagram: The Feminist Bar Podcast. Support The Feminist Bar Podcast on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast Patreon.

Host Tinatswe Mhaka discusses the adverse effects of purity culture on women's lives, including unrealistic expectations, shaming, and oppression with guest Eleanor. The societal constructions of virginity, and their consequences for women's bodies and relationships. What does a more inclusive and realistic understanding of sexuality and relationships look like?Follow The Feminist Bar Podcast on Instagram: The Feminist Bar PodcastSupport The Feminist Bar Podcast on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast Patreon.

Host Tinatswe Mhaka sits with Tshepo Jamillah Moyo to discuss their personal experiences with feminism and its impact on their family, community, and relationship dynamics. How do our feminist ways of life impact who we connect with and how? Have we ever felt the need to forfeit freedom for what some might call 'cheap companionship'. How do these interactions show up in friendships and relationships?  Thank you for being a part of The Feminist Bar Community.  Follow The Feminist Bar Podcast on Instagram: The Feminist Bar Podcast Support The Feminist Bar Podcast on Patreon: The Feminist Bar Podcast Patreon

Host Tinatswe Mhaka chats and comments on the latest in feminist and queer news in July 2024. What are the feminists reading? What are we listening to? LGBTQIA+ Violence in Ghana and Kamala Harris as a poster child for black liberation? Let's talk about it. Follow the podcast at The Feminist Bar Podcast on Instagram. Thank you for your support and for being in the community with all the guests and listeners of The Feminist Bar. If you would like to support the podcast this season, please visit The Feminist Bar Podcast on Patreon.

In this episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka dives deep into the "Stories of Girls' Resistance" project with feminist storytellers and activists Jama Jack and Cate Nyambura. This groundbreaking multi-year, multi-site initiative spans regions, organizations, and contributors, documenting the lived realities and experiences of girls, non-binary people, and women aged 11 to 70. Through this discussion, we explore the power of ethical feminist storytelling, the importance of creating safe spaces for marginalized communities, and the necessity of societal change to ensure safety and empowerment for girls. Learn more about the project here: Stories of Girls' Resistance Follow the podcast on Instagram: The Feminist Bar Podcast Support the podcast on Patreon here: The Feminist Bar Podcast Patreon Thank you for being a part of The Feminist Bar Community. 

Host Tinatswe Mhaka chats and comments on the latest in feminist and queer news in July 2024. Is it hot or not that the Church of England is fighting about gay marriage? African leaders and their gay children abroad, including Cameroon's president's current predicament. Etsy bans erotica—what does that mean for creators? Plus, what are we reading? What are we listening to? Let's talk about it. Follow the podcast at The Feminist Bar Podcast on Instagram. Thank you for your support and for being in the community with all the guests and listeners of The Feminist Bar. If you would like to support the podcast this season, please visit The Feminist Bar Podcast on Patreon.

Welcome to the Feminist Bar Podcast. In this episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka has a conversation with guest Panashe about queer sex and pleasure from a non-binary perspective. The discussion unpacks gender identity, the journey to safe and empowering sexual pleasure, and the role of traditional understandings of sex on queer people. If you would like to follow the podcast, please visit : https://www.instagram.com/thefeministbarpodcast/?hl=en  Thank you for your support and for being in community with all the guests and listeners of The Feminist Bar. If you would like to support the podcast this season please visit : patreon.com/thefeministbarpodcast 

Welcome to Season 5 of The Feminist Bar Podcast. We are making everything about feminism with some amazing gays and they are in these upcoming episodes so stay tuned. You can follow the podcast at: https://www.instagram.com/thefeministbarpodcast/?hl=en 

In this episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka talks with Rutendo Chabikwa about the role of academia in feminist movement building. What works? What doesn't? How can we transform academia to be safe? Follow the podcast on :  https://www.instagram.com/thefeministbarpodcast/?hl=en   

In this episode, we are listening to your stories about your first queer sexual experiences and what happened after that? Are you on your queer journey? Did you have some realizations? You can submit your story here: https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv   

In this episode, we are listening to your stories of the first time you experienced sexual pleasure. Sexy adventures? Reclaiming your bodily autonomy? Leaving shame behind? Tune in. Thank you for your submissions and feel free to make any new ones here: https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv 

In this episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka unpacks sexual empowerment briefly before we listen to your submissions about what made you sexually empowered. These stories have also been narrated by this podcast community who constantly help bring it to life. So did you buy a vibrator and do it yourself? Did you have an awful sex experience? Maybe it was your relationship at the time. What led to your sexual awakening? https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv 

In this solo episode, we are just catching up on the latest in feminist news and what is coming next to the podcast. Let's consider what it means to cancel an artist and when we decide to do that. Leave your anonymous submissions here : https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv 

In this episode, we are listening back and holding space for all the anonymous submissions talking about the things we were never taught about our bodies. Shout out to The Feminist Bar community for these anonymous submissions and the listeners who brought them to life. To make your anonymous submission visit the following: https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv 

In this episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka shares some top headlines in feminist and queer news across the globe this week. With personal reflections, let's delve into some of the mainstream displays of misogyny and the power of bigotry. Make your anonymous submission for upcoming episodes here: https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv 

In this episode, two feminists hold space for each other as they share their abortion stories with the audience. We compare processes, feelings, and aftercare revealing some of the reproductive violence experienced by abortion seekers, even in places where it has been legalized. If you would like to share your story anonymously follow: https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv  To learn more about this project visit: https://80000toomany.com/ 

Have you watched Barbie? Let's unpack. In this solo episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka discusses the feminist themes of the recent Barbie movie and the negative reaction from toxic masculine mainstream media. Feminism vs Women's Empowerment? The learned nature of misogyny? What are some of the best lessons from the movie? 

In this episode, we listen to an abortion story submission as part of the 80000 Too Many Project. If you would like to submit your own anonymously visit: https://storyzink.com/m/2861k6qv?s=2 

Join host, Tinatswe Mhaka as she talks to Tawana (@TiniwanaTalks) about having casual sex as a feminist. What makes this such a hot topic? Is there a way to exist outside the norms of patriarchy without worrying about systemic violence? Let's talk about it. You can follow Tawana here: https://t.co/zgRBjo56yi  

Today we speak to Charmain Gombiro on how restrictive abortion laws and lack of aftercare are a form of reproductive violence. We explain the meaning and different forms of reproductive violence and how it shows up in our daily lives. What makes reproductive justice central to the feminist movement? 

In this episode, the host and queer feminist activist Tinatswe Mhaka discusses the Women Deliver 2023 conference held in Kigali Rwanda 17 July - 21 July. What worked? What didn't? How can we make all our convenings more feminist and intersectional? Hear from a few people from different sectors about how they found the conference. To watch the video content follow https://rb.gy/a0oui

In this episode, we discuss the importance of having access to quality aftercare services for those who have had an abortion. We talk about what abortion aftercare entails and how it may assist in recovery. From an African perspective, we ask 'What more can we do to support abortion seekers?'

Having an abortion may have a toll on your body and mind, so in this episode, we discuss how to take control of your pleasure after an abortion. We speak with Marie-Simone Kadurira who gives us tips and tricks on self-care strategies that will help you get back to yourself or better! If you would like to learn more about this project visit www.80000toomanyproject.com 

In this episode, we are discussing abortion laws in Zimbabwe. We deep dive into the legislation's history and the current legal landscape and provisions. We also discuss strategic litigation and its potential impact on abortion access. If you would like to learn more about The 80000 Too Many Project or submit your abortion story visit www.80000toomany.com. This project is funded by Urgent Action Fund Africa and Black Feminist Fund. 

In this special episode, we are reporting a story under the 100 Stories of Us project !! Host Tinatswe Mhaka talks to spoken word poet and media practitioner Prince Rye about his trending outfit at the Zimbabwe NAMA Awards. We talk activism, taking up space, and navigating Zimbabwe's conservative and problematic social norms. Check out the project at: 100storiesofus.com 

In this episode host Tinatswe Mhaka briefly addresses emerging conversations about the rise of feminism impacting loneliness. How does regression solve the loneliness problem faced by several generations? What are some of the emerging trends from this conversation? If you would like to attend the screening of Transcending Boundaries: Being Transgender in Zimbabwe please register at: https://bit.ly/40c42IY 

In this episode, the host is joined by author Samantha Vazhure to talk about her feminist journey. How does patriarchy keep us in place? What are some of the things that enlighten us into discovering new freedoms? Engage with the author and her work here: https://www.samantharumbidzai.co.uk/ 

In the first episode of 2023, host Tinatswe Mhaka is joined by Nyashadzashe Makoni to talk about the different ways we can change social norms in our families and communities. The conversation unpacks some of the risks and nuances related to enforcing change in conservative environments. You can follow the podcast @thefeministbar on Instagram and Twitter. 

Happy Holidays to all the feminists and listeners out there. Thank you for your time, engagement, and discourse. In this episode host, Tinatswe Mhaka reflects on 2022 and talks about some things to keep in mind over the holidays as we challenge ourselves and others. 

Let's talk about leaving princesses alone and agreeing that our sexual boundaries do not define our sexualities. This is a Behind The Bar episode, a short chat and update with host Tinatswe Mhaka. To support our guests please check out their podcasts: Kim Nyajeka https://knyajeka.podbean.com/ Fiona Gambanga https://utanopublichealth.podbean.com/