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We're back with another episode of Graphic Support Group and we're filled with joy to share this one. Our guest Nontsikelelo Mutiti “is a Zimbabwean born designer, visual artist, and educator whose conceptual approach to design spans the mediums of print, moving-image, web design, fine art, and community engagement.” That introduction doesn't even begin to capture the breadth of wisdom that Nontsi shared with us. As the spring semester came to an end this past May (she is the current Chair of Director of Graduate Studies in Graphic Design at Yale University) the multidisciplinary designer spent a gracious couple of hours with us. Her words moved us through the many worlds and spaces she occupies in her life. The conversation helped Drew and I to re-think some ideas about Modernism, community and representation that admittedly had us in knots over the years. Sometimes the complexity of the world has a simpler, more honest solution. We're so happy to share this generous episode and hope it'll bring some joy to the beginning of the fall. We hope you all will find some joy in the episode and maybe consider becoming a dragon slayer.We R Here 4 U. Get full access to Graphic Support Group Podcast at graphicsupportgroup.substack.com/subscribe
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
n this solo episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb dives into a theological exploration of work as an extension of Christian calling that extends far beyond paid employment. Building upon their previous discussion about vocational choices for Christians, Jesse addresses the question: "Does a Christian's work ever cease?" Through careful examination of Ephesians 2:8-10 and other passages, he argues that while the nature of our work may change through different seasons of life—including retirement, caregiving, or illness—God has prepared good works for believers to walk in throughout their entire earthly journey. The episode offers both theological foundations and practical guidance on how Christians can approach all forms of labor as worship, finding purpose and meaning in every season of life. Key Takeaways Good works are not the basis of salvation but its goal—Christians are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), not by works, yet they are saved for good works that God has prepared in advance (Ephesians 2:10). The Christian's work never ceases but changes form—Whether in paid employment, retirement, caregiving, or even during illness, God has prepared meaningful work for believers in every season of life. All work has spiritual value when done unto the Lord—The Reformed tradition elevates all forms of work, not just paid employment, as having potential to glorify God. Prayer is a significant and valuable form of work—Even those who cannot engage in physical labor can participate in the vital spiritual work of intercessory prayer. Good works offer multiple benefits to believers—According to the Westminster Confession, good works manifest gratitude to God, bolster assurance of faith, encourage other Christians, adorn Christian doctrine, silence critics, and glorify God. Christian workers should be distinctively different—Believers can stand out in the workplace by being fair and committed, genuinely caring for others, demonstrating generosity, remaining calm under pressure, and being authentic about their faith. Finding our identity in Christ transforms our approach to work—When we place our ultimate treasure in heaven rather than earthly gain, we can approach our labors with greater peace, purpose, and freedom from anxiety. Elaboration on Key Points The Christian's Work Never Ceases but Changes Form Jesse challenges the modern Western notion that work is merely a season of life that eventually ends with retirement. Instead, he presents a more ancient and biblical perspective: that work never ceases but merely takes different forms throughout our lives. Using Paul's metaphor of "walking" in the good works God has prepared (Ephesians 2:10), Jesse explains that our journey continues throughout life, with the landscape changing as we move through different seasons. Whether we're in paid employment, caring for loved ones, serving in retirement, or confined to a bed during illness, God has prepared meaningful work for us to do. Even those who are physically limited can engage in the vital work of intercessory prayer, which Jesse describes as "the kind of work that is so glorious... that while it exhausts us, it exhausts us in a way that brings us the greatest kind of sleep or refreshment." This perspective eliminates the anxiety many Christians feel about the purpose of their later years and affirms the ongoing value of their contributions to God's kingdom regardless of their physical capacity or economic productivity. Good Works Offer Multiple Benefits to Believers Drawing from the Westminster Confession of Faith, Jesse outlines six significant benefits of good works in the Christian life. First, good works manifest our gratitude to God for the gift of His Son—they become tangible expressions of thankfulness for salvation. Second, they bolster assurance of faith by providing evidence of God's work in our lives. Third, good works encourage other Christians toward greater acts of Christ-centered love, as we witness the transforming power of the gospel in one another. Fourth, they adorn the doctrine of God our Savior, making abstract theological truths visible and attractive to others. Fifth, good works silence critics who devalue biblical Christianity by demonstrating its positive impact. Finally, they glorify God by displaying His transformative work of love in our lives. These benefits apply to all forms of work—paid or unpaid—and give eternal significance to even the most mundane tasks when done unto the Lord. As Jesse emphasizes, "There are no mundane things. There are no small works... There are just these small things that come alongside with the great work that God has done already in our lives." Memorable Quotes "Good works aren't bad when they're seen as the goal of salvation, not its ground. The goal, because it's worthwhile to want to worship God and to obey him by doing good works." "Keep walking on that journey knowing that God all along the way has already prepared good works for you to do because he loves you and because this is our opportunity to worship him together in everything that we do." "When we are performing this work for God, he assures our faith. He refreshes us in it. He exhausts us in the best possible way so that we might love him more, cherish him more, encourage one another more, and really come to understand his character more forthrightly." Full Transcript [00:00:08] Jesse Schwamb: Keep walking on that journey knowing that God all along the way has already prepared good works for you to do because he loves you and because this is our opportunity to worship him together and everything that we do. [00:00:32] Jesse Schwamb: Welcome to episode 459 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse, and this is the podcast where the tulip never wilts. Hey, brothers and sisters. [00:00:48] Recap of Previous Episode [00:00:48] Jesse Schwamb: So in this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, this solo episode, I'm gonna wrap up a conversation that Tony and I just had in the last episode and set us up, wet Your Appetite for a whole brand new series. [00:01:03] Jesse Schwamb: That's gonna be starting in the next episode. So you find yourself bookended by two really great things. One, a great conversation we just had about the Christian and work. Are there jobs that really Christians shouldn't have? Because it takes us away from what it means to serve the Lord vocationally, as strange as that sounds. [00:01:22] Jesse Schwamb: So if you didn't hear that, you're gonna wanna go check that out before you listen to me, wrap all of us up right now. In fact, here's what you should do. Stop everything you're doing, unless it's operating a vehicle or a backhoe. Power those things down. Get off the side of the road, then go to reformed brotherhood.com and you can find all of the episodes living out there that we've ever recorded, including the one from last week, and I believe will be greatly blessed by hanging out with some of those conversations. [00:01:49] Jesse Schwamb: So go and do that first. [00:01:51] The Christian's Work and Retirement [00:01:51] Jesse Schwamb: On this episode, I'm gonna talk a little bit as a follow up about. Does the Christian's work ever cease? Is there a time, because we just spoke about vocational work and work for which we're remunerated, where once that goes away, what happens next? Is it a different kind of work? [00:02:07] Jesse Schwamb: Is it no work? Should we be the kind of people that are trying to pursue an end to that remunerated work as quick as possible? Is that okay? What happens if we can't be compensated for our work anymore? What happens? We're gonna reason from the scriptures a little bit more about work, our calling and all of that by way of vocation. [00:02:26] Jesse Schwamb: And part of this conversation has actually come from a larger conversation. So one of the greatest and best things about this podcast, something I wanna boast in right now, because it has nothing to do with Tony or me, and that is. There are lots of people listening, brothers and sisters from all over the world who gathered together and debrief. [00:02:47] Jesse Schwamb: Talk about the episodes, hang out and talk about life, share funny stories, share prayer requests, support one another. And you can do that by joining our little group on a messaging app called Telegram. So in fact, here's the second thing you should do. If you go to T Me Reform Brotherhood one more time, T Me Back slash Reform Brotherhood, slap that bad boy in your favorite browser, and that'll give you a link to our little corner of this messaging app. [00:03:13] Jesse Schwamb: And there's a channel within that app just to talk about. The various episodes as a way of interacting with all of us, and as a result of the episode that we recorded last about this idea of vocational work and calling, how does that all come together? Brother Joshua posed an excellent question, which is in part the reason for the conversation I'm about to have with you all, and that is what happens. [00:03:33] Jesse Schwamb: When we retire, or what happens when we desire to set aside sufficient resources if we can, so that we can get to that place as soon as possible. What then what about work or what if we have to care for a sick, sick, loved one? Or what if we have to come and take responsibility for our family in a different or unique way that takes us away from work where we're not being paid for things in the same way anymore? [00:03:52] Jesse Schwamb: What happens then? So we are going to get to all of that on this little brief little episode that's gonna sit in between the end of our conversation on work and the beginning of our brand new series, which, you know, you want me to tell you what it is, but I'm not gonna do it. It's just not gonna happen on this episode. [00:04:09] Jesse Schwamb: So you're just gonna have to sit in that anticipation waiting. Waiting for it to come next week, but for now, let's talk a little bit more about work. [00:04:17] Good Works and Salvation [00:04:17] Jesse Schwamb: And let me start with a, a phrase that's like so obvious, but you can say it with me if you want, because we have to agree on this. At least that good works aren't bad. [00:04:27] Jesse Schwamb: I mean, good works aren't bad. They're good. By definition it seems like self-reinforcing. And as Christians, we should want to do those good works. Now, I haven't said what the good works are, haven't even explained really. Although we, Tony and I talked about this before, how they really fit into that pattern and that normative behavior of the Christian life. [00:04:44] Jesse Schwamb: But can we just agree that if the Bible is saying there are good works for us to do, then they must be good. And they must be there for a purpose. They must be there for a reason and we can't debate that. Just because we're not saved according to our works doesn't mean that we shouldn't be concerned about pursuing a life of joyful obedience to God's word. [00:05:01] Jesse Schwamb: I mean, this is why Jesus like emphatically states in the gospel. If you love me, you'll keep my commandments in obedience. However frail it is. However much we stumble, however feeble we are in actually executing it is our evidence. Our love for God and for his son Jesus Christ. So far from undermining the gospel of grace, good works are the perfect compliment to the gospel, and this is why good works are good. [00:05:29] Jesse Schwamb: So to be clear, good works are bad when they're seen as the basis of salvation. And I think if you've been with us for any length of time or you're familiar with the reform. Theological movement. If you've been steeped in the scriptures, you're gonna find that kind of compulsion, that pull that says like, well, I understand that when I use my good works as a means of somehow Meritoriously earning my salvation, they cease to be good. [00:05:54] Jesse Schwamb: This is why, of course, Jonathan Edwards called Good works of this nature, only glittering sin because they're, they have no power to redeem. They have no power to save. They have no power to. Transition yourself into some kind of a righteous sense or rubric. It's impossible. They will not do that. They do not serve that purpose. [00:06:12] Jesse Schwamb: A person is not saved by works, but by God's grace through faith in Christ. [00:06:17] The Role of Good Works in Christian Life [00:06:17] Jesse Schwamb: So this is the time where we have to love ones. Go to Ephesians chapter two. It's impossible for me to continue without at least sharing this good news. If you need to hear this again, and this may be a well rehearsed verse or a well rehearsed writing from the Apostle Paul to you, but I ask that you hear it again. [00:06:32] Jesse Schwamb: If you can with these ears that are unstopped, that are almost fresh with excitement for this really good news, this is what Paul writes to the church and Ephesus for. By grace, you have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves. It is the gift of God, not as a result of works so that no one may boast. [00:06:51] Jesse Schwamb: For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. I mean, there's so much there that is. Lovely and refreshing. And freeing. It's not works righteousness, it's not meritorious. Salvation is clearly not of our own doing. It's not the result of these works, even the faith through which we receive salvation is a gracious, gracious gift from God. [00:07:21] Jesse Schwamb: So what a just burden taken off of our shoulders. The mantle has been removed from us. To somehow even equate or think that, well, if I have a good day and I've done a lot for God, he must love me more. I must be more ingratiated towards him, even if I have the sense that. I feel closer to him. Hopefully that closeness is the sense of joy and obedience. [00:07:40] Jesse Schwamb: And now where we get the sense that, well, because I've done something for God, he ought to do something for me or me more favorably disposed towards me. All of that is nonsense and that way just. Total foolishness and madness lies. Instead, when we turn that into our rejoicing first for the faith itself by which we receive from God, that grants us access to this great salvation. [00:08:02] Jesse Schwamb: When we see that as a gift first, then all of this other mongering for responsibility and trying to placate through the things that we can do and having this sense of guilt in our minds about what we should have done or what we did not accomplish, or even if in our own obedience toward Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit, we've fallen short. [00:08:20] Jesse Schwamb: We can still find there is this gift for us and the gift of salvation is ours in Christ through faith, not by works. It's very, very clear in what Paul writes to the church here as fallen creatures, even our best efforts are completely laced with sin. This also is, by the way, a really great kindness of God that we can never really be contrite enough in our coming before him and, and even in our humility, we probably can never be humble enough. [00:08:47] Jesse Schwamb: So the fact that God accepts because of Christ us into the family of God without having to put upon us this burden that you must be sorry enough for your sin, or you're not repentant enough, you haven't expressed the severe and necessary amount of contrition to really placate and understand that you have cosmically committed treason against the all powerful God of the universe. [00:09:13] Jesse Schwamb: Who could stand underneath that kind of weight. And the answer is no one, but by the grace of God through Jesus. So it's amazing. That when we start to think about work, what we find is that God is first doing all of the work in us, and we see that the first work is not our work, but his work, the secondary work, this means of obedience, of showing, our gratitude of expressing praise and worship. [00:09:37] Jesse Schwamb: Must, I think, necessarily be manifest in work that is labor of some kind, because God has first expressed himself in that kind of labor. And second, he's given it to us to do as an experience into his very being and his character, but also in service to him and to those who are around us. I promise I'm getting to all of this good stuff about what does this practically mean, but all this I think is so necessary for us. [00:10:02] Jesse Schwamb: To really set the proper understanding for what it means to have good work to do and to do this work. So these good works provide no basis for boasting because they're utterly worthless to save. They have worth in other ways, but it just turns out they're worthless In this way. It's a bit like if you take your, take your, whatever your domestic currency is, whatever the currency you, you transact in, I live and hang out in the United States, so my currency is the US dollar. [00:10:24] Jesse Schwamb: If I take a bunch of dollars with me and I go travel almost anywhere else in the world. There's a small chance they'll be accepted. And I realize I've picked the wrong currency for this metaphor at this point, but if I let, let's say, let's just pick a different one. Let's say that you live in Zimbabwe or you just happen to have a bunch of Zimbabwean dollars hanging out in your pocket. [00:10:42] Jesse Schwamb: I'm sure some of you do, and you take that currency and you come to the United States and you wanna go buy something, those dollars will not work. They just won't work. Nobody will accept them. They're worthless. They're without value. Now, do they have value? In a certain sense, of course they do. In that domestic currency, in that homeland they do. [00:10:59] Jesse Schwamb: And in the same way, though, of course, slightly different here, our works are these expression of. Obedience of love for God. But the minute we try to exchange them for salvation, what we're gonna find is God says that's worthless here. And it again, is a fool's errand to build your entire life on some kinda system or belief that says, what I'm doing is earning these dollars, making these good works, performing these things. [00:11:22] Jesse Schwamb: So I'll have gathered to myself all of this currency, which I'm then going to use to buy my salvation now, I think even in my own ears, that sounds ridiculous to say, and yet so many of us. Get caught up in that. And if we don't get caught up in whole, we sometimes get caught up in it peace wise, because again, we have a sense that, well, if I've been a particularly good Christian today, doesn't that mean that God is more happy with me? [00:11:45] Jesse Schwamb: And Paul says, no, you have been saved as a gift of God. It is his gracious act that through faith you have been given salvation, and that faith was not of your own. That itself as well was a gift. It's gift upon gift upon gift. And so even the work itself is shaped. By the sense that all that God gives us and him doing all the verbs is his gifting. [00:12:09] Jesse Schwamb: So good works are gonna provide no basis for boasting because they are worthless to save. And the only foundation for salvation is Christ, we're saved by his works, not ours. If you're looking for that good, that first, that perfect work, the thing that you could latch onto, the thing that you would say this, I'm gonna hang my hat. [00:12:27] Jesse Schwamb: And all of my life on the work that you're looking for is not the one that you can accomplish. It is the one that Jesus has already done on your behalf. So that's why I always think when I see those W wait, they're not as prevalent anymore I suppose. But do you remember a time loved ones when like the ubiquity of the WAJD bracelet and I always thought about the question, what would Jesus do? [00:12:49] Jesse Schwamb: And to me, the answer I give now somewhat tongue in cheek is everything and it's already been done. And so that is really the promise. The great blessing of the gospel that now we are saved for works and boy does that preposition make a difference. Like we should be underlining that, like putting that gilded gold in our Bibles like we are saved now for God works good, works are not bad then when they're seen as the goal of salvation, not its ground. [00:13:14] Jesse Schwamb: I wanna say that again because I think that might sound a little bit funny to some, but I've long really come to cherish this idea that it is the goal but not the ground. The goal, because it's worthwhile to want to worship God. And to obey him by doing good works. And Paul gives us an avenue in which to travel and to understand this and to reason it from the scripture so that we can be confident that that's exactly what God intends for us. [00:13:37] Jesse Schwamb: And so again, while these good works aren't meritorious salvation, they are a necessary component of Christian faith. And the first important thing that we ought to mention here. Is that when we think about work, it's not that like the reform tradition, that that theological perspective has somehow elevated work for remuneration. [00:13:55] Jesse Schwamb: I, I don't think that entirely was the whole emphasis of talking about vocation in that kind of theological sphere. That is, we have a bunch of Christians and they have to do work to survive, and some of them are cobblers and of them are cooks and some of them are cleaners. And so what we really need to do here is make sure that people understand that whatever you're getting paid for God has made you to do. [00:14:15] Jesse Schwamb: And that is not a great thing. That's all true, but the goal wasn't just to elevate that style or type of work that is the work for which you get compensated. It was to elevate all work, all work of every kind, all labor of every kind, because God is big enough that every bit of labor paid or unpaid in direct service for somebody. [00:14:34] Jesse Schwamb: Fortunately, there is no compensation or in service to someone for which there is that all of that work. It does give God glory if we mean it to. And so this is why they do all things. Whatever you do, whether you eat or whether you drink, all of even these tiny things roll up into this argument from the lesser to the greater all of work is for God's glory. [00:14:53] Jesse Schwamb: And so to tip my hat a little bit here, then I think an answer to, to Brother Joshua's question, and in a nice compliment to what Tony and I were talking about last week, there is no end to the Christian's work. There's just different types of work. Oh, we'll get to that. I'm a little bit ahead of myself here. [00:15:08] Jesse Schwamb: But of course we find in Ephesians two, it's important to understand this because there's so much of the dynamic of good works in the Christian life that are being explained there. And of course we learn that good works are the result and not the cause of being new creations, and they're testifying to the fact that we have been redeemed. [00:15:24] Jesse Schwamb: So our lives might reflect craftsmanship and character of God. So amazing, isn't it? That God has given work, that work is not a four letter word, that labor is good labor of all kinds. Is good because it's reflecting the craftsmanship in character of God in unique ways. That is like apart from doing work from this work which God has called us to, from traveling in it through our lives and participating in all kinds of different work, that there's something that would be missing in our exemplifying, the craftsmanship in character of God. [00:15:56] Jesse Schwamb: And so we see that apart from Christ. We can do nothing that pleases God, but in Christ. And here's a great promise. We are created to perform God honoring acts of obedience in Christ. We can be confident that God accepts our weak and wobbly efforts. You know, Paul further goes on to talk about good works, a result of God's pattern for the Christian life. [00:16:15] Jesse Schwamb: We don't need to wonder what God requires from us. He's told us in his word, good works are deeds done in conformity to God's word. Now the beauty of that is. That we have this pattern for the Christian life in which Paul is saying, and I think this is really helpful for our conversation, that all of the things that God has given us to do, he's already prepared. [00:16:39] Jesse Schwamb: He's already me and plus it. He's already set the table for us. He's already put all the things in place. He's already organized all the details. And he says that because he's done that we are now free to walk in them. And I interpret that walk as this idea, which I think is very particular to the way that Paul is writing here. [00:16:57] Jesse Schwamb: It's a word of encouragement that is speaking of more of a marathon and rather a sprint. So of course, like a lot of times in the West, we think of our work as a season of life in which we're doing something in service for a company and for others, creating value, which is good. All of these things can be in service to God, of course, especially when they're in honoring. [00:17:15] Jesse Schwamb: With a full counsel of the scriptures and that when we do those things, that time will end and then we start to think about what work do have left. Whereas really, of course, a more ancient way of thinking about work was that it never ceased. It was of different kinds, and we know it was of different kinds because of this idea of walking that is like you never says stop the walk. [00:17:32] Jesse Schwamb: It never says take a break. It says you're gonna continue throughout your life in this metaphor of. Your journey of life being a walk, and as that walk changes, as the landscape undulates, as you move and transverse over different geographies on this walk in this metaphor, there's no doubt that the work will be different. [00:17:50] Jesse Schwamb: And there may be a season when you no longer have to work and be compensated, but it doesn't mean, of course, that the work ends. In fact, the work is still there. It's a different kind. And we don't want it to go away, in fact, and we don't want it to feel, uh, like it should be a, a lesser thing because it's not because we've been given in this verse the sense that this is the pattern that's been given to us. [00:18:12] Jesse Schwamb: It's the value of walking the pathway of obedience. And Paul makes it manifold. In fact, the Westminster Confession of Faith, which I'm 17 minutes in and you can mark your clock. That's the first time I mentioned it. I've gotten there already. Loved ones. Don't worry, we're always gonna bring in a confession. [00:18:27] Encouragement and Assurance Through Good Works [00:18:27] Jesse Schwamb: And on this week, it's the confession of faith from the Westminster states that there are at least six benefits of good work. So here these out, this is just my quick rundown of what the Westminster puts forward thinking about these good works and when you hear these benefits. Think about them in the broadest way. [00:18:41] Jesse Schwamb: That is like, think about how these benefits apply to all kinds of work, not just like your nine to five, but like of course your family society and the church and your work there is needed both because it is an exemplification of obedience to Christ, but also because it is accomplishing good and creating value. [00:18:58] Jesse Schwamb: So the first is that good works manifest our gratitude to God for the gift of his son. Now think about this. If that's true, that this in a concrete way. No matter what, we're able to do that we, if we're doing these good works, we're showing gratitude to God. Why would we ever want those good works to go away? [00:19:14] Jesse Schwamb: Why do we wanna break that pattern? We don't want to. And again, this gives a, a high level, a high calling to all the things that we can do, both like again, in our paid work and then thereafter. Or even if we, we never have paid work that all of these things, there's something for us to do here and it manifests our gratitude to God and the gift of his son. [00:19:32] Jesse Schwamb: The second thing is good work's, bolster assurances of faith. So it is the Christian who in obedience to Christ has a compulsion is as Paul would say elsewhere, hemmed in by the love of God to work towards a specific end in love and service toward others. That is a good work. And when we're doing that good work, there's a mutual kind of reinforcement that occurs that as we humble ourselves before God and that we work to. [00:19:57] Jesse Schwamb: Or to obey him and that we walk in the good works that he has prepared for us, that we find that we are sure that God is who he is, that his character and craftsmanship is, is in fact manifest in us and demonstrated by us. And in this way as we worship him, we find that our faith grows. Especially perhaps when we're called to do things that are difficult or we're called to participate in work, especially in the church, that requires some kind of leap of faith and we're in so doing where we must trust God forthrightly. [00:20:27] Jesse Schwamb: We find that doing those good works bolster our assurance of faith. Number three. Good works are a means of encouraging other Christians toward greater acts of Christ-centered love. There's so much in Hebrews chapter 10 that we could talk about there. This is an incredible idea that when we work towards obeying God laboring on his behalf in all of the spheres of life, to which he has given us to participate in that Christians receive this as a. [00:20:55] Jesse Schwamb: Form of encouragement. You know, think about how you've seen the testifying work of somebody else in your church, in their patience, in their kind behavior. You know, we often speak about a person who is graceful, and by that of course, we mean there's a beauty to their outer movement, as it were. That's maybe they're a graceful dancer. [00:21:11] Jesse Schwamb: Maybe they're a grace or a baseball player, but you'll find that you can apply this word in so many ways whenever you are trying to really show that somebody in their outward movements does things particularly well, or just with ease or in a way that conveys a certain kind of beauty. When we say that somebody is gracious, what we essentially mean is that there's a beauty to their inner movement that is, that the exemplification of who they are in Christ is so firmly rooted in solid, that the way they behave in situations and circumstances clearly shows. [00:21:43] Jesse Schwamb: That there's something different about the way that they process the world and in the way that they work. And when we see that we are prone to be encouraged to see that God is real, that he does intervene and interact in situations that he does, in fact still do the most miraculous thing ever, which is take the sinner, take the gospel abuser, take the unregenerate, and perform that surgical movement. [00:22:05] Jesse Schwamb: Where that heart of stone is replaced with one of flesh, it's the greatest miracle in the entire universe. And so when we're seeing that work exemplified, we're allowing ourselves to participate in encouraging our brothers and sisters. Fourth good works are concrete avenues for adorning the doctrine of God, our savior in life, in ministry. [00:22:25] Jesse Schwamb: So again, it's uniting this idea of who we are, that we say we are, who we are in our transformation regeneration, marrying that up with work. And this is, again, why a. All of this reform of theology elevates work to this place of saying, whatever you do, you can do it to the glory of God and you ought to, you ought to be thinking that way because this is the way God intended all the things that we do to be done. [00:22:47] Jesse Schwamb: So idea of like when Paul says, like, pray without ceasing, be constantly in the Lord. I think in some ways what he's saying is. When you shift your mindset to recognize that there are no mundane things to do because God has prepared all those things ahead of time, they're, they're mundane, maybe in their smallness, in our own like really myopic kind of human natural man perspective. [00:23:06] Jesse Schwamb: They are certainly not mundane with respect to the power of love that may be communicated in them with the encouragement that flows out of them, and with the expression of gratitude for God, our savior and his son. All of those things are high and lifted up worthy of exaltation and call worthy of all of our efforts. [00:23:23] Jesse Schwamb: And so there we find that there are really no mundane things. There are no small works as it were. There are just these small things that come alongside with the great work that God has done already in our lives and our expression of that first work that he has done. So Fifth Good Works, silence critics who devalue the goodness of biblical Christianity. [00:23:43] Jesse Schwamb: You know, there's a lot here that we could talk about. Jesus was so outspoken about what it meant for his followers to adorn themselves to be in Christ, and in so doing, they were gonna be these lights set on a, like a city on a hill for all to see. And sometimes as Christians, we get a little, eh, strange about this kind of thing, don't we? [00:24:01] Jesse Schwamb: Because we, we wanna be careful that we need to be humble. You know, we, we want to make sure that as we're serving God, that we are not boasting in that in any kind of way, and yet there is something here where we ought to be giving and testifying to why we do certain things. I've been thinking about this a lot because I think it's one thing for us to say, well, we wanna live in such a manner. [00:24:21] Jesse Schwamb: We wanna do our work in such a manner, whatever that is, so others know there's something different and, and this is noble and honorable. I think what's even better is to let them know why it's different. Sometimes you shouldn't wait for somebody to ask. You know, if it's clear that you're doing something and you wanna express why we're doing it, say, I'm, I'm doing this 'cause Jesus loves me, he's changed me, and Jesus loves you. [00:24:39] Jesse Schwamb: I mean, this is okay to say loved ones. And I think in doing that, making that connection clear, what it's gonna do is it's going to make sure that those who would say like the, the Bible is antiquated out wounded document. It's a document that's filled with strife. It's a document that pits won't people against one another. [00:24:54] Jesse Schwamb: It's a document that is not progressive enough. What they'll find instead is. When our good works, our truly good works are accompanied by a verbal testimony of why we do these works in obedience to God for, because of his great love for us. It will discredit those who would say all of those things. It turns away a. [00:25:14] Jesse Schwamb: All of the critics would say that the Bible is, is not relevant, that Christians are too, uh, bigoted, that we are the kind of people that are too hypocritical. Instead, when we acknowledge that we are far from perfect, but that we have a perfect savior when we talk about our weak faith, but that our, the faith that we have is not in its size, but in the size of the savior. [00:25:34] Jesse Schwamb: When we can say all these things alongside of our efforts to be obedient. Being humble, asking for forgiveness, seeking repentance from those whom we hurt, that in this way, we are again doing all of the things that are the theology of the cross, that even in our small weaknesses, even in our great failures, what we find is God does more than just to fill in the gaps He overflows with through the power of His Holy Spirit into a powerful testimony into the lives of others with whom we interact, and especially in the things that we do. [00:26:05] Jesse Schwamb: So six. And lastly, this is from the Westminster. These benefits of good works. Last Good works glorify God by displaying his work of love in our lives. I think we often forget about this. That God has given us work because he loves us. Of course, God is always working. There's something beautiful about the fact that God is ever present in our lives working in our hearts. [00:26:29] Jesse Schwamb: And sometimes of course, as the, the older reformers have said, he lays us over the Anil, as it were, and he hammers on us, and those are painful times. And other times he's really polishing up our sharp edges or sanding off those places where we need a little bit of attention. But everywhere he's working in us and what a blessing that he never stops, isn't it that he comes to us constantly because he loves us. [00:26:51] Jesse Schwamb: He refuses to leave us in a state that is less than the abundant life. Now we know that we will never accomplish that, this side of glory. But what a benefit that God never gives up on us. That he continues to show his great love for us in how he attentively comes into our lives to hone us in this progressive sanctification, whereby his work doesn't stop. [00:27:13] The Unending Nature of Work [00:27:13] Jesse Schwamb: And so because his work doesn't stop. Neither does ours. So the beauty of this is for anybody else, for us, for brother Joshua, for those who are thinking about, you know, what if I, I want to maybe try to set aside more resources now so I can stop my work of re of compensation to do other things, I would say. [00:27:31] Jesse Schwamb: Well, Godspeed by, by the power of God, I, I hope that happens for you. And what about those who would say, well, my work is gonna have to be caring for a loved one who's ill? I would say that is great and good work. What about those for who are retiring now or thinking about retirement? What's left? Tons. Of good work. [00:27:48] Jesse Schwamb: I think we know this. Now, what about for those who are in the final stages of their life, those who are not ambulatory, maybe those who are weak, maybe those who are ill themselves. There is still good work because the work that God gives us is not the heavy kind that causes our bodies or our minds to be crushed in despair, to have to till the ground as it were in such a way that it leaves us lacking replenishment instead, even for those. [00:28:16] Jesse Schwamb: Who are saying, what is my place when my body is wasting away? [00:28:21] The Value of Prayer in Our Work [00:28:21] Jesse Schwamb: When I'm having a, a season of sickness and I feel like there's nothing I can do, there is so much that the church needs from you in particular, especially your work in prayer. And again, I think we've been outspoken. Prayer is absolutely a work. [00:28:34] Jesse Schwamb: If you don't believe me, just. Try to pray. So just being able to participate in something like that, which is in many ways maybe the greatest calling. I, I always think about this phrase, when we work, we work, when we pray, God works. And so just the act of saying I'm gonna devote myself in prayer, in intercessory prayer for my church, for my community, for my family, is a kind of work that is unparalleled. [00:28:58] Jesse Schwamb: And so if that's the work that God has given you to walk in right now. Then would you please do it? Because it is the season to which he's called you because he's with you on that journey. And Paul says, wherever you go, wherever you are walking, God has already prepared before you get to the next stop sign, before you get to the next wave point, before you get to the next pin drop. [00:29:17] Jesse Schwamb: God has already prepared for you good works, and you're mealing to walk in them. [00:29:22] Finding Joy and Refreshment in Labor [00:29:22] Jesse Schwamb: And so the work of prayer by itself is the kind of work that is so glorious, like all the work of Christ that we find refreshment and it changes. There's a theme here, like all of our work changes because when we are doing it onto the Lord, we're doing it with him in mind when we're understanding that this is our obligation, but also our greatest privilege, that while it exhausts us. [00:29:41] Jesse Schwamb: It exhausts us in a way that brings us the greatest kind of sleep or refreshment. Does that make sense? We ever had like a really great day at work where, you know, I, I worked hard and I did work worth doing, and in that I felt that there was a sweetness. In fact, Ecclesiastes five 12 says, sweet is the sleep of a laborer, whether he eats little or much, but the full stomach of the rich man will not let him sleep. [00:30:05] Jesse Schwamb: This idea that. Why as we work, as we labor for God, that he does restore us, he gives us joy and satisfaction in that work. And again, there's this, all this mutual reinforcement, this kind of self-fulfilling and reinforcing idea that. When we are performing this work for God, he assures our faith. He refreshes us in it. [00:30:24] Jesse Schwamb: He exhausts us in the best possible way so that we might love him more, cherish him more, encourage one another more, and to really come and understand his character more forthrightly. [00:30:34] Living Quietly and Minding Your Affairs [00:30:34] Jesse Schwamb: I like what Paul says in one Thessalonians chapter four, aspire to live quietly and to mind your own affairs. I mean, that's. [00:30:42] Jesse Schwamb: Good advice for all of us, mind your own affairs and to work with your hands as we instructed you, so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one. So we talked before about what it means, that really in our work, we ought to care for those who we love. We ought to make sure that we can provide for them, but there will also be seasons. [00:30:59] Jesse Schwamb: One, there will be others who need to provide for us. And so in so doing, again, we're honoring God by walking in this path that he has given us, uh, to do. I like this. There's a couple of other great verses I think that are helpful for us to really think about what it means to have good work to do and to understand that good work. [00:31:17] The Blessing of Giving [00:31:17] Jesse Schwamb: Here's from Acts chapter 20. Paul says, in all things I've shown you that by working hard in this way, we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus. How He himself said, it is more blessed to give than to receive. So think about that there. There is an expression right there about work and what is this working hard. [00:31:35] Jesse Schwamb: It's to help the weak and to remember the words of Lord Jesus Christ. It is more blessed to give, to receive than to receive. Love always leads to giving for God. So love the world that he. Gave, and I think part of this good work that God calls us to is just giving. And so like right now, you may be in a season where you are giving of your labor in return for compensation, for that labor, but presumably there will, and there should come a time when you'll be giving it and you'll not be receiving that. [00:32:00] Jesse Schwamb: But it doesn't lessen the work. It doesn't take it away. It doesn't mean that it's not necessary anymore. We ought to continue to pursue that because love always leads to giving. Now I want to just finish our short little time together today as we've reasoned, hopefully. [00:32:15] Practical Ways to Exemplify Christian Values at Work [00:32:15] Jesse Schwamb: In a profound way from the scriptures helping us to be encouraged in this work by just a couple of things that if you are thinking in the sense of what can I do right now in my work of all kinds to exemplify and to be driven by unique view of humanity and a love rooted in the wisdom of the cross to stand out, what, what can we do as Christians, practically speaking. [00:32:37] Jesse Schwamb: To take everything that Paul has just given us here, appreciating this beautiful pattern that work is just gonna be part of our lives forever. And by the way, loved ones I, I have a strong conviction that in the new heavens and new Earth, that work will still be present there in a fully orbed and fully expressed, fully realized way that it's not capable today because of everything being mined by sin. [00:32:59] Jesse Schwamb: But then we're gonna find that this is just like an amm bush. It's the taste that. The thing that's coming for us, the appetizer of how work is gonna be fully satisfying, fully encouraging, fully joyful, and a full expression of how God has made us to do things. One of those things again are laboring in prayer, laboring on the construction site, laboring on a desk, laboring in the education and the teaching and ammunition of children. [00:33:24] Jesse Schwamb: All of these things are just really, really good. So what are a couple of things that we can do? Well, here's some things that that come to my mind. The first is that I think Christians can be known as the most care fairing and committed kind of people. So. Think about it this way, driven by the father's love and his acceptance of us through Jesus, we can be the kind of people that are known as fair, caring, and committed to others. [00:33:52] Jesse Schwamb: Since we know the depths of our own sin and the magnitude of God's grace to us, we can be ready to forgive and reconcile with others, and we should be quick to do so if we're doing that in their work environments. Whatever that environment is, there's no doubt this is gonna draw some fair amount of attention. [00:34:07] Jesse Schwamb: We may actually, and this is gonna sound a little bit wild. We may even have opportunities to take risks for the benefit of others. Now imagine it this way. Let's say that everybody has somebody to whom they're responsible and almost everybody else has somebody who's responsible to them. So think of it this way, if you are leading any kind of group of people, formerly or informally, you may have a unique opportunity to take risks on the behalf of those people. [00:34:30] Jesse Schwamb: Now, that may be may mean advocating for them. It could mean yielding to them, even if you have a hierarchical position that's above them. But more than anything, it could mean that you actually take a risk to take responsibility at times. So it's possible that let's say you're a leading a team and you're a place of work, and one of the people who is responsible to you, that is one of the people who reports to you, makes a mistake. [00:34:52] Jesse Schwamb: Let's say that the person that you are responsible to, your boss finds out about this. There's lots of ways you could go about this. Now, you may feel that you want to be easy just to say, well, this wasn't me. It was their fault. But consider how a Christian might approach this in love. It's possible that it may be entirely appropriate for that leader to take responsibility for the mistake, not taking blame for it, but taking responsibility for it as an act and expression of what it means to be fair, caring, and committed to others. [00:35:20] Jesse Schwamb: And now this may mean that if you were that person, you might lose a little bit of cloud to the organization. You might use a little bit of reputation or ability to maneuver within the organization, but there could be a very powerful, could be testimony in your ability to risk yourself for others in a way that I believe, again, is walking in this path of good works and that you are reasonable people. [00:35:41] Jesse Schwamb: You can sort out, I think in a situation like that. What kind of responsibility you might have, but I think it's important for us to consider that we may have that kind of responsibility and that to be known as fair, caring and committed to others. To advocate for them to again, forgive and to reconcile, and then sometimes to take risks of opportunity for the benefit of others is something that is unique to the Christian. [00:36:00] Jesse Schwamb: I think we at least agree on that, that kind of response to a s. We'll be wholeheartedly unique. [00:36:06] Generosity and Kingdom Living [00:36:06] Jesse Schwamb: I think we also need to be known as generous and depending on the context and opportunity, generosity at work can be expressed in so many different ways. Managers can be generous with their advice, their access, their investment in people. [00:36:17] Jesse Schwamb: All of us can be generous with our time, our money sharing our resources. Sacrificially. If you're a small business owner, and this is gonna sound wild, but let's, let's talk about kingdom living for a second. Loved ones like I presumably you're listening to this because we're not just satisfied with the small things. [00:36:31] Jesse Schwamb: We wanna think big in what it means. For the gospel to go out, for Jesus to be known. And so in this context of being generous, maybe it means if you're a small business owner, that you're willing to take less personal profit to benefit your neighbors or your customers or your employees. You know, I think of this company called a Go. [00:36:47] Jesse Schwamb: Which is a wooden toy company and it's, it was founded by a couple of Christians and driven by their Christian faith. They intentionally take smaller profit margins to benefit the people of Honduras where the wood is sourced and to create an employee savings program for them. I mean, that what a remarkable thing what, what a counter-cultural expression of what it means to be doing good. [00:37:08] Jesse Schwamb: Work. And so we can also grow and show our generosity to our colleagues by loving them outside work. You know, cooking a meal, preparing a meal for them when they have a child or attending a funeral if they lose a loved one, grabbing dinner with them if they're struggling, joining their club sports team, attending their wedding. [00:37:23] Jesse Schwamb: You know, generosity during, after work hours is a testimony of love. It shows that you see them as a whole person, not merely as like a productive asset or just a colleague. So I think we should push back a little bit on being generous and maybe sometimes I, I wanna say this. Gently because we are a benefit ourselves in this podcast of this, but not just with your money, especially with your time and maybe with like your attentional focus, maybe with your prayer time. [00:37:47] Jesse Schwamb: Maybe with your labor, in your prayer closet, that of all the things you could focus on, how often are we praying for our colleagues, like really praying that they would come to see the gospel in us, that we would be courageous in expressing that gospel and that God would arrest their hearts, which snatch them up and bring them into his kingdom so that all of our workplaces would be filled, uh, with Christians, that they would be everywhere. [00:38:08] Jesse Schwamb: Doing all kinds of things in som, much as God calls us to those things in submission to him, an expression of who he is and in obedience to what he's done for us. Here's another thing. I think this is a big one. It's one that I struggle with in my own life. [00:38:23] The Importance of Calmness and Authenticity [00:38:23] Jesse Schwamb: So I think another place, another way in which we can really stand out as Christians in our good work is to be known as calm. [00:38:30] Jesse Schwamb: Poised in the face of difficulty, failure or struggle. This might be the most telling way to judge if a person is drawing on the resources of the gospel and the development of their character. And this goes back to this idea of like, what does the a voracious person mean? It's, it's somebody who has like that inner. [00:38:47] Jesse Schwamb: Beauty expression of inner inner beauty. You know, how do we act when our boss passes over us for a promotion? How do we act if we fail to get that bonus we expected or, or if like a colleague is placed on a team we want to be on, how do we respond to those things really reveals where we placed our hope and identity. [00:39:03] Jesse Schwamb: And that can be a whole nother. Podcast. But if it's true that we have rooted ourselves, grounded ourselves, securely in Christ, then that is the supreme treasure that we have, and then everything else should be like, oh, that's no big deal. It's not to say that we're not gonna have big emotions, but even as we experience those big emotions, part of what it means to be humble is to come before God and say, God, I'm feeling this way. [00:39:26] Jesse Schwamb: And I'm a contingent being and I'm upset about this. Would you help me to reveal your gospel in this situation? And what a blessing in our progressive sanctification where God moves us into that space so that what becomes normative is when everybody else is losing their minds, when everybody else is gossiping, when everybody else is complaining. [00:39:46] Jesse Schwamb: What everybody else is pushing back here is the Christian who is resolute in firm and is speaking words of life. Encouragement into their workplace or those whom they're doing their work, who is speaking the gospel to them, who is calm and is poised and is ready to lead in such a way that brings value to everybody, helps 'em to find the true security in the situation and is not willing to compromise by participating in a meaningless backtalk. [00:40:12] Jesse Schwamb: That is an incredible testimony, and there's no doubt it's gonna cause us to stand out. There is something about this placing value that I think is important to mention. And I think I mentioned this before, but Tony's not here and I'm just talking. And so my experience, my professional career is all in the realm of finance. [00:40:30] Jesse Schwamb: So I've gotta use this because I think about this a lot and it's certainly relevant to us thinking about where is our value. [00:40:38] The Concept of True Treasure [00:40:38] Jesse Schwamb: I find it so interesting. That in the sermon on the mound. And when Jesus is speaking about treasures, he doesn't completely say that we should forsake treasures. Have you ever thought about that? [00:40:50] Jesse Schwamb: So instead of saying, you know, listen, don't worry about the treasure, just focus on me. Don't try to go after things. Just focus on me. And somebody says, listen. Listen, listen. You're going after the wrong treasure. So don't go after treasure where you know a moth or Russ is gonna destroy it or where like you're gonna be worried. [00:41:09] Jesse Schwamb: A thief is gonna break in and steal it. All those things are not just temporal, they can be taken from you. In fact, they, they will be taken from you. This is the wild part to me. He says instead, rather than do that, here's what you should do. Seek after the treasure that's in heaven. In other words, the proclivity to want to grab hold of valuable things and to keep them close to you, that is not bad in and of itself. [00:41:32] Jesse Schwamb: It's that you are focusing on the wrong thing that you want to grab and hold close. Seek after those treasures in heaven. And I can tell you why. This just shows the brilliancy with which Jesus knows us because he has created us loved ones, and in our fallen state, he's so kind to condescend to be like us, yet of course, without sin. [00:41:50] Jesse Schwamb: And in that he expresses a great knowledge of who we are and how we are. So. There's a very famous study done, actually very many versions of this study done, and what they'll do, and you can play along, I know I've done this before, but as you're sitting there listening to my voice play along with the scenario that I'm about to give you, and you can answer for yourself what you would do in this situation. [00:42:11] Jesse Schwamb: There's no right or wrong answer. So here's the situation. Researchers gave per people two options. They said, you, I can either give you a thousand dollars for sure, or. Or we can play a game. We'll flip a coin. If the coin is heads, you get $2,000, but if the coin comes up, tails, you get nothing. So the choices were you could have a sure thousand dollars or you could risk it. [00:42:39] Jesse Schwamb: And with a coin flip, a fair coin flip, you could get either $2,000 or zero. Now I'll pause. What would you prefer if you're like most people? You would take the sure $1,000 because you'd rather have for sure a thousand dollars in your pocket than giving up the gamble. Even though you could get twice as much the gamble of $2,000 or zero, who wants to walk away with zero when somebody's like, I'll give you a thousand dollars for certain. [00:43:06] Jesse Schwamb: Most people would prefer the certainty. Now those who are like keen have a turn of mind for mathematics are gonna realize that on average, those two options are exactly the same. So whether you get a thousand dollars. For certain, you got the a thousand dollars on the other option, half the time you'll get zero. [00:43:23] Jesse Schwamb: Half the time you'll get a $2,000. If you average those out, that's sequel to a thousand dollars over the long term. So there's something interesting there too, isn't it? See how our minds are working that we prefer, we are loss averse. In other words, we do not like loss. In fact, there's a very famous. [00:43:39] Jesse Schwamb: Theorem about this that says the pain of losing a dollar is twice as great as the pain of gaining one. And this is why it's so hard. If you have a retirement account, you have investments somewhere. When you look at your accounts and the numbers are down, you feel particularly awful. And when they're up, you feel good, but not that great. [00:43:54] Jesse Schwamb: Uh, this is the idea of. Being a loss averse. Now, here's the other thing that these researchers did. They flipped the whole scenario, and I'm gonna give you one more thing to think about. So rather than talking about gains, they said these people, okay, here's your choice, and you have to choose one of these. [00:44:09] Jesse Schwamb: Either you can take a sure loss of a thousand dollars, or you can take a gamble. And you can take a, we'll flip a coin and if it comes up heads, you'll lose $2,000. But if it comes up tails, you will lose zero. So again, here are the two options, but now we're talking about losses. You either have to take a loss of a thousand dollars for certain, or you could take the gamble, flip a fail fair coin, and you could lose $2,000 or you might lose nothing if it comes up tails. [00:44:42] Jesse Schwamb: Now what would you do? Now if you're like most people, what these researchers found is people gravitated toward taking the risk. That is, they chose the option when they said, let me flip the coin, because at least if I flip the coin, there's a chance I might not lose anything. I know I might lose $2,000, but I would rather take the risk of losing 2000, but have the opportunity to lose nothing than take the sure loss of a thousand dollars. [00:45:05] Jesse Schwamb: So here's what's crazy about all this. Here's what it teaches us, is we make the wrong choices all the time. You know, technically speaking, when it comes to gains, we should prefer the risk, the risk of zero, because you started out with zero, so you're not better. You're not worse off by having zero, and if you win, you get $2,000. [00:45:22] Jesse Schwamb: But when it comes to the loss, we should take the sure loss of a thousand dollars because we might end up having a loss of $2,000. We tend to behave poorly given the situations. This is an example of loss aversion and risk aversion, and Jesus knows this. That's the brilliance of it, of course, because he says, I know that your hearts will be troubled by losing your treasure. [00:45:45] Jesse Schwamb: So here's the thing. It's not the treasure that's bad, it's that you're putting your faith, you're going after the wrong thing. So loved ones. When we find ourselves rooted in Christ, when we find our identity right there in him, when we are sure that all that we have is in the heavenly realms and therefore everything else can float and fl away, then we find ourselves able to be the kind of people in our workplaces where we're calm, poised in the face of difficulty failure, or all kinds of challenges. [00:46:14] Jesse Schwamb: One more thing I would encourage you with, and that is just be known as authentic and integrated. This goes back to something Tony and I have really challenged ourselves with so much, and that is some Christians aren't very open about their faith at work and others talk about it all the time, but act and speak in ways that marginalize nonbelievers. [00:46:30] Jesse Schwamb: We should, of course, be really wise about how we share the reason for the hope that we're, we have when we're at work. But staying silent isn't an option. If we wanna be authentic people, we have to bring our whole selves to work. I think this is where we all, at times could use a little work. I, I've barely been encouraged by brothers and sisters who are far better at this than I, where. [00:46:50] Jesse Schwamb: They're really good at explaining why they do something, and perhaps they've been building a relationship with non-believers, serving them, working with them. And, but when the right opportunity approaches when the moment arrives, they're right there with their explanation. They're quick to say, it's because Jesus loves me. [00:47:06] Jesse Schwamb: They're quick to talk about the transforming power of the gospel. And it's not in a way that's overbearing. It's not in a way that seems disingenuous or somehow like they're, they're shoehorning in some kind of, you know, bully pulpit testimony. Instead, it's a natural expression. Because they were ready and willing and brave. [00:47:22] Jesse Schwamb: To do that. So we've got to be known as authentic and integrated, and that integration is just as important as the authenticity. What, what is the good, what is the point of doing many of these good works if there is not a commensurate explanation or expression of why we are doing them, because. Plenty of people who are non-believers also do good work. [00:47:42] Jesse Schwamb: This is part of the common grace that God has given to all of our world and to the entire universe writ large. So in that being said, sometimes we just need to say, this is why I'm doing it. And it's possible that probably people are sometimes thinking, I have no idea why this person is doing this, but I'm not gonna ask them. [00:47:57] Jesse Schwamb: 'cause that's super weird. So by us stepping forward and saying, listen, I love you, God is good to me, uh, there there's a God over the universe who saved me. I was in this pit of despair and he's taken me out of that pit. My work, the things I do, I do now for him. I do it not just because I wanna provide for my family, but because I love God. [00:48:16] Jesse Schwamb: I want to be obedient in worshiping him, and part of how I worship him is doing my work this particular way. That's why you see me. Work like this. What a beautiful thing. Loved ones. [00:48:25] Final Thoughts and Encouragement [00:48:25] Jesse Schwamb: So there's so much I think for us to think about here. I could go on and on, and at this point, this is no longer a short episode. [00:48:32] Jesse Schwamb: You've gotten almost 50 minutes of me just talking. So I want to thank some people for good works right now. And that is. For those of you who have joined in the Telegram chat and are hanging out. Thank you. I really appreciate that. And there's so much good conversation going on there. Again, I gotta plug it. [00:48:48] Jesse Schwamb: If you haven't, if you're not in there, you're really missing out on this experience. It's not just hearing Tony and I talk. It's coming alongside and being integrated with all kinds of other brothers and sisters. So do yourself and us a favor and go to T Me Rhyme, see t me slash reform brotherhood and come hang out with us in addition. [00:49:10] Jesse Schwamb: I'm so grateful for all those who contribute to the podcast financially to make sure that just keeps going. If you've ever wondered like, how is this all free, and there's a website where I can go surf the back catalog@reformbrotherhood.com and it just shows up in my podcast feed, and it doesn't sound like they're in a tin can somewhere or in a hurricane recording this. [00:49:28] Jesse Schwamb: How does all of that happened? It happens because there's so many lovely brothers and sisters who's come alongside and said. Yeah, you know what? After all my responsibilities, I have a little bit left over and I wanna make sure that this thing just continues to keep going. And so I say to you, thank you so much. [00:49:43] Jesse Schwamb: If you would like to be a part of that and I challenge you, come join us in giving toward the podcast, Tony and I do. And there's somebody I love, our brothers and sisters who do as well. That's what makes this happen. You can go to patreon.com, reformed brotherhood, so we've got all kinds of good stuff coming up. [00:49:59] Jesse Schwamb: I love the fall season, autumn in the Western hemisphere here, because it feels like a reset in many ways. Like the kids go back to school, the weather changes depending on where you are, the
On this episode, Jiaoying sits down with the hilarious and unstoppable Learnmore Jonasi — the Zimbabwean comedy sensation who's been leaving audiences in stitches from Africa to America. With a style that's equal parts sharp, silly, and wildly unpredictable, Learnmore has a gift for turning everyday chaos into world-class punchlines. From roasting cultural quirks to spinning stories that hit way too close to home, Learnmore has something for everybody. #jiaoyingsummers #comedy #LearnmoreJonasi About Jiaoying Summers:Jiaoying Summers is a Chinese-American stand-up comedian, actress, and social media influencer known for her bold humor, sharp wit, and unique perspectives on life, culture, and identity. A proud mother and successful performer, Jiaoying's journey from her beginnings in China to becoming a comedy sensation in the U.S. is nothing short of inspiring. She uses herplatform to tackle topics like cultural differences, family, and self-empowerment, always leaving audiences laughing and thinking.Stay Connected With Jiaoying:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jiaoyingsummers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jiaoyingsummers/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jiaoyingsummersX: https://x.com/jiaoyingsummersWebsite: https://summerscomedy.comCopyright Notice:This video and my YouTube channel contain dialog, music, and images that are property of Jiaoying Summers. You are authorized to share the video link and channel, and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube channel is provided.Support the showFollow Jiaoying Summers Social media & get tickets for Tiger Milf Tour!Facebook | Youtube | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | Merch | Tour | Patreon | OnlyFansSupport the showFollow Jiaoying Summers Social media & get tickets for Tiger Milf Tour!Facebook | Youtube | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | Merch | Tour | Patreon | OnlyFansSupport the showFollow Jiaoying Summers Social media & get tickets for Tiger Milf Tour!Facebook | Youtube | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | Merch | Tour | Patreon | OnlyFans
Africa Melane chats to Human Rights Advocate and Lawyer Simba Chitando on the South African government's lack of clarity on the way forward for those who have the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome To Anywhere a novel by Joe Ruzvidzo. Welcome To Anywhere is a historical fiction with psychological drama set in a post-independent Zimbabwean town known simply as Anywhere, where Billy, a teenager who gets entangled in a web of events that started long before he was born.Read on Becoming The Muse
Donald Trump has ordered the removal of a Federal Reserve governor, as he steps up attempts to exert control over the US central bank. Mr Trump accused Lisa Cook of making false statements on mortgage agreements. Ms Cook said the president had no authority to remove her from her post and promised to keep carrying out her duties. Also: a day of national protest in Israel, called by the families of hostages held in Gaza; Africa's reliance on imported fossil fuels could be on the verge of a transition as a record number of solar panels were imported by countries on the continent; and the legendary Zimbabwean musician Thomas Mapfumo is retiring after a remarkable career that spanned more than five decades. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
Today, Matt is joined via Zoom by visual artist, Musonga Mbogo. Musonga is a visual artist based on Ngunnawal and Ngambri land in Canberra and his work is a unique blend of his Tanzanian and Zimbabwean roots and Australian upbringing. Fresh off designing a stunning mural for Canberra Hospital, Musonga’s current solo exhibition, Awake Before the Porshes is open now at HAKE, HOUSE OF ART IN DEE WHY until Saturday August 9. We’re so excited to chat to Musonga about this collection, his creative process and so much more. This episode was produced and edited by Zaity Salman. Out of the Box is recorded at the fbi station in Redfern, which is on unceded Gadigal Land. We pay our respects to Gadigal elders past and present and recognise the ongoing colonial violence committed across this country. Wherever you’re tuning in from in so-called Sydney, the land always was, always will be, Aboriginal land. Awake Before the Porches - Musonga’s instagram Matt’s Instagram Our Episode with Emma Harrison Our Episode with Genesis Owusu See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This episodes features hit songs including collaborations with other artists by Zimbabwean artist Nutty O. One such song is a collaboration with reggae legend Bob Marley from the 2023 Album Africa Unite
Growing up during Zimbabwe's Bush War, Deborah Calmeyer moved to New York at 24 and built ROAR AFRICA from a side project to help her zoologist father into a leading luxury safari operator. Now she runs 200+ trips annually across a continent where geography comprehension and operational logistics challenge even seasoned travel companies. Our host Fred Moore examines Deborah's business model, built from her unique perspective across multiple worlds—a childhood in the Zimbabwean countryside and decades living between the urbanity of New York and Cape Town. The conversation covers her operational philosophy of removing friction points, from hot espresso waiting on runways to managing complex multi-country itineraries through destinations like Botswana's Okavango Delta (Deborah's top recommendation). They discuss the economics of conservation tourism, high-value low-traffic models, and the measurable impact of COVID-19 on wildlife protection when tourism ceased. Deborah explains her deliberate strategy of building a predominantly female-led company in a traditionally male-dominated industry, the challenges of scaling supplier networks, and her private jet initiative connecting multiple destinations efficiently. An episode exploring market positioning, operational excellence, and how conviction-driven leadership can reshape entire industries.
In conversation with Namatai Kwekweza In this compelling episode of Africa Rights Talk, we journey to Zimbabwe, a nation rich in culture but weighed down by political repression and shrinking civic space. Our guest, Namatai Kwekweza, a fearless pro-democracy activist and founder of WELEAD Trust, recounts her harrowing abduction and detention during the SADC summit, an ordeal rooted in her outspoken defence of constitutionalism and human rights. Despite not even being in the country at the time of the alleged offence, she continues to face trial, navigating a justice system that has denied her basic documentation and attempted to erase her movements from official records. Through her own words, Namatai exposes the machinery of state intimidation from unlawful arrests and incommunicado detention to the criminalisation of solidarity – and the toll such persecution takes on both the body and spirit. Yet, beyond the injustice, Namatai's story is one of unyielding defiance and hope. She speaks candidly about the personal cost of human rights work in Zimbabwe, the strategies she uses to remain resilient, and why she continues to fight for the dignity and rights of her fellow citizens despite the risks. Her testimony is a vivid reminder that in environments where power tramples freedom, individual courage can inspire collective resistance. This conversation not only sheds light on the lived realities of activists in hostile political climates but also affirms the enduring necessity of speaking truth to power. Namatai Kwekweza is a Zimbabwean pro-democracy activist, feminist, and youth advocate. As the founder and director of WELEAD Trust, her organization focuses on empowering young people while promoting constitutionalism and human rights. With a background in diplomacy and law, Namatai is recognized for her bold leadership and disruptive thought advocacy. Her activism has garnered both national acclaim and controversy, including arrests linked to peaceful protests and her outspoken stance on government accountability. The conversation was recorded on 12 July 2025. Youtube: https://youtu.be/MpQFogU6lns Music and news extracts: Inner Peace by Mike Chino https://soundcloud.com/mike-chinoCreative Commons — Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported — CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...Music promoted by Audio Libraryhttps://youtu.be/0nI6qJeqFcc Limitless https://stock.adobe.com/za/search/audio?k=45259238
Saif and Reeves are hoping to get hit by a bus and get isekaied to a magical world! Until that happens, we'll keep giving you great anime content.We have some major updates for you in this episode, including Saif adjusting to married life, Reeves moving (again) and offering to pay for the visas for our Zimbabwean fans to attend his housewarming, and our hot takes on the Winter 2025 Anime Season. Is Yuri on Ice the best BL show out there? And is it even worth watching anime that doesn't make it to major streaming platforms? We get into all of it!Please send us some fan mail at notonlyanimepodcast@gmail.com and we'll answer it on our next episode! Interested in getting a (Not) Only;Anime Podcast t-shirt? Send in your size with your fan mail. And follow us on Instagram and Twitter @notonlyanimepod------------------------------Time Markers:8:00 - Winter 2025 Anime Season Review37:42 - Best Rom-Com of the Season------------------------------Recorded July 8th, 2025
Bongani Bingwa in conversation GroundUp journalist Daniel Steyn about Primrose Modisane's long-fought battle for recognition. Modisane, a 36-year-old Zimbabwean-born woman, finally received her South African birth certificate five months after a court ordered it. She had faced significant challenges, including being denied basic rights like education, healthcare, and parental recognition, despite having DNA evidence and legal backing. The conversation also explores the broader implications of high administrative costs on the compensation fund for sick miners and a recent Constitutional Court ruling that deemed restricting cattle grazing for people living on land under the Extension of Security of Tenure Act (ESTA) as equivalent to eviction. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa broadcast on 702: https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/36edSLV or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/zEcM35T Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Public Protector's office has confirmed it has no record of complaints from Zimbabwe's Human Rights Commission regarding Zimbabweans being denied healthcare in South Africa. It clarified that last year's visit from the Commission was a benchmarking exercise focused on practices, not an audit of South African services. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe's Human Rights Commission has expressed concern over reports of clinics refusing treatment based on nationality or documentation. Elvis Presslin spoke to Jessie Majome, chairperson of the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission
In this gripping episode, we sit down with Dr. Keith Silika, a Zimbabwean-born criminal investigator whose extraordinary journey has positioned him at the crossroads of two worlds most of us never see intersect.Raised between his father's traditional healing practice and devout Catholic faith, Dr. Silika brings an unprecedented perspective to one of today's most misunderstood and dangerous phenomena, ritual attacks. From his early days in Zimbabwe's police force to his current work in England's law enforcement and academic circles, he's witnessed firsthand how supernatural beliefs continue to cause modern-day violence and persecution.This isn't your typical true crime discussion. It's a deep dive into the complex intersection of culture, belief, justice, and human rights that will inspire you to explore this critical issue further and engage in important conversations about protecting vulnerable communities worldwide.Warning: This episode contains discussions of violence and harm that some listeners may find disturbing.Friendship Bench WebsiteDr. Silika's Project: Forensic Investigation and Prevention of Witchcraft-Related Harmful Practices: A Study of Law Enforcement and Human Rights Perspectives in Southern Africa Dr. Silika's Article: Running for Community Healing: Why I Ran the Manchester 10K for the Friendship BenchThe International Network Against Witchcraft Attacks and Ritual AbuseThe Thing About Witch Hunts YouTubeThe Thing About Witch Hunts WebsiteSupport Us! Buy a book from our independent book shop
In 2018, Paul Le Roux, a white Zimbabwean who held South African and Australian passports, was a notorious crime lord who illegally trafficked drugs, gold, and guns. He testified in a U.S. court about having murdered numerous people by professional assassins, including a Filipina real estate agent killed in 2012. Six years earlier from his testimony, Le Roux was arrested by the Drug Enforcement Administration in Liberia. He began to cooperate with the U.S. government as they rounded up and prosecuted his criminal organization members for reducing a possible life sentence.For any collaboration, brand partnership, and campaign run inquiries, e-mail us at info@thepodnetwork.com.CONNECT WITH US▸ https://linktr.ee/phmurderstoriesHere are links to our social media accounts, case photos, episode notes, and sources!YOUTUBE▸ www.youtube.com/phmurderstories DISCORD SERVER▸ https://bit.ly/3n38Tuh IG CHANNEL▸ https://ig.me/j/AbaOmN2HytgKay0F/ SUPPORT OUR SHOW ON PATREON▸ www.patreon.com/phmurderstories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, host Tinatswe Mhaka sits with Dorothy, a queer Zimbabwean woman, to talk about what it means to love deeply in a world that makes no room for that love. Dorothy shares her story of finding intimacy, connection, and care with someone whose family could not accept the relationship because of her sexuality. This conversation explores what it feels like to be loved, but not welcomed. What it means to lose a relationship because of homophobia and family pressure. And how we carry love after it ends — not as something broken, but as something we can still honour and learn from. Together, Tinatswe and Dorothy reflect on grief, longing, survival, and the quiet power of choosing to live openly in the aftermath of loss. Listen and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Instagram Twitter/X Patreon
This week on the podcast, I'm joined by an incredible guest: a Zimbabwean-born academic, content creator, and mother - Dr Nonhlanhla Dube (a.k.a. Dr Noni) - whose path to a PhD took her across continents, through two undergrad degrees, a prestigious scholarship, and finally, a research post in the Netherlands.We talk about:How rejection redirected her toward purposeWhat it was really like finishing a PhD as a new MamaWhy she's now showing up on TikTok to help others find joy in academic writingAnd what she wishes more people actually said out loud about being a Mama in academiaWhether you're deep in your PhD or just figuring out how to hold it all together as a parent in academia—this one is for you.Make sure you subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode about the real, raw, and beautiful mess of PhD Motherhood. And if you love what you hear, leave a kind review—it helps more Scholarly Mamas® find us!Follow Dr Noni on Tik Tok or YouTube for more :-). Find her co-founded SWAN community here.Want more?1. Check out the Mrs Mummy PhD® blog.2. Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tik Tok or Threads3. Join us inside Scholarly Mamas®!4. Check out my Doodle Dozen® children's book series!These are our journeys of becoming!Send me a text message.Support the show
Come have a good laugh during our special comedy show. We bring you quips from a Zimbabwean comedian making a splash in the United States. Also, Syrian comedians tell jokes that were unthinkable under the former regime in their country. And, Venezuelans find humor in exile. Plus, an AI bot that beats phone scammers at their own game.Listen to today's Music Heard on Air. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
In this engaging conversation, Gemma Griffiths discusses her experiences as a musician, the importance of privacy in the public eye, and the collaborative nature of songwriting, she also touches on her recent feature in Rolling Stone Africa . She shares her love for performing in various cities and highlights the cultural significance of Zimbabwean condiments.
It's Alun's turn this week, as he relives one of his greatest travel stories! Whilst walking the streets of Johannesburg, South Africa, he was attacked and mugged by a Zimbabwean gang; the gang were armed with knives, machetes, and a rusty screwdriver!After a year travelling the continent of Africa, and with a flight to New Zealand booked for the very next day, was Alun lucky to escape or did he push his luck too far? Tune in to hear the full story!We'd love to hear from you! Send in your greatest travel story here: tripologypodcast.com/talesofatripNeed travel insurance? We recommend SafetyWing! Click here to get started: https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=26035801&utm_source=26035801&utm_medium=AmbassadorRequire an onward flight? Please use this fantastic flight rental service: https://onwardticket.com/tripologypodcastFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/tripologypodcast/Subscribe to our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@tripologypodcastPlease rate the show and help us grow! Recommend the podcast to family & friends (all of them). It makes a HUGE difference. Thank you for your continued support. It means the world.
In the final episode of “Currency Experiments & Value Conversions” Ferda Nur Demirci and Daromir Rudnyckyj discuss the 2023 article “'Every dollar has its own problem': Discrepant dollars and the social topography of fungibility in multicurrency era Zimbabwe” with its author, Chris Vasantkumar, an anthropologist based at Macquarie University. The discussion addresses Zimbabwe's complex monetary landscape, particularly during the “multi-currency era” (2009–2019). Vasantkumar explains how people navigated the overlapping currency forms that circulated in the country, including U.S. dollars, bond notes, RTGS balances, and EcoCash, in the context of chronic economic instability and hyperinflation. Vasantkumar challenges assumptions about the fungibility of money, drawing on Zimbabwean experiences to critique dominant theories such as Viviana Zelizer's notion of “earmarking.” The discussion highlights how different forms of money were materially and symbolically non-interchangeable, creating arbitrage opportunities and shaping social relationships. The wide-ranging conversation also addresses the politics of cashlessness, the affective dimensions of monetary trust, and how divergent conceptions of value can inform a decolonial reorientation of economic anthropology. Chris Vasantkumar is a Senior Lecturer in Anthropology in the School of Communication, Society, & Culture at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia. He is also the co-convenor of the Future of Money Project, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. His work has two primary foci. First, since 2018, he has ethnographically investigated the crisis economy in contemporary Zimbabwe, with a focus on the collapse of trust in state currency and its effects on middle-class attitudes toward money, planning, and the future. Vasantkumar's research interests include broader theoretical approaches to money and exchange. His in-progress book manuscript, Trinkets: Discordances of Value in More-Than-Human Economies, advocates the decolonizing of received settler-mercantile exchange theories, as developed out of his analysis of early encounters between Europeans and the Indigenous peoples of Africa and North America. Podcast Co-Hosts Ferda Nur Demirci, co-host of Currency Experiments & Value Conversions, is a postdoctoral research fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology, working in the Department of Economic Experimentation. Her research explores the intersections of financial inclusion policies, kinship obligations, resource extraction economies, and authoritarian governance, with a particular focus on the cycles of indebtedness affecting working-class families in Turkey. Her work has been published in both English and Turkish in outlets such as Antipode Online, Dialectical Anthropology, and 1+1. She is also a research associate in the Counter Currency Laboratory at the University of Victoria. Daromir Rudnyckyj, co-host of Currency Experiments & Value Conversions is Professor of Anthropology at the University of Victoria, where he serves as Director of the Counter Currency Laboratory. His research addresses money, religion, development, capitalism, finance, and the state. Dr. Rudnyckyj's current project examines the techno-politics of money, with a focus on experiments in producing complementary monetary forms. His most recent journal articles include “Econography: Approaches to Expert Capitalism,” in Current Anthropology and “The Protestantism of Neoliberalism” in Culture, Theory, & Critique. He is the author of Beyond Debt: Islamic Experiments in Global Finance (Chicago 2019) and Spiritual Economies: Islam, Globalization, and the Afterlife of Development (Cornell 2010), which was awarded a Sharon Stephens Prize by the American Ethnological Society.
The weapons formed against us shall not prosper (more than they are already doing). Dan & Phil are back with a new episode, if there's stuff you notice, eyes front and mind ya business! Zimbabweans in film, the "no intervention" policy in wildlife filmmaking, various entertainment and music stories from Zim and abroad, expensive photographers, Tyler Perry, and... the new Superman movie. Enjoy!Subscribe and listen to 2 Broke Twimbos everywhere podcasts are available and keep up with all things 2BT via this link:2BT LinkPlease rate and review, and support us on Patreon!
What happens when a “nobody” stands up to a dictator and his regime? In this episode of Cut to the Chase: Podcast, Gregg speaks with Zimbabwean activist, author, and pastor, Evan Mawarire. Evan is a courage speaker, movement builder, and changemaker inspiring nations around the world to stand up to injustice and end poverty and corruption. He's also the courageous voice behind Zimbabwe's #ThisFlag movement. What started as a heartfelt video in his church office became a nationwide call to action against corruption, violence, and dictatorship. Evan opens up about the emotional toll of resistance, surviving arrests and torture, and the lessons he's learned about courage, forgiveness, and what it really means to spark change. Whether you're standing up to a regime or speaking truth in your community, this conversation will inspire you to take that first brave step. What to expect in this episode: The viral church office video that sparked a national uprising in Zimbabwe Courage Under Dictatorship: How Evan Mawarire turned fear into fuel for justice Small Acts, Big Waves: Why even one voice can ignite a movement From Silent Outrage to Public Action: How collective participation builds momentum Lessons from Mandela & MLK: The enduring power of nonviolent resistance Setbacks, Survival, and Escaping Prison: What Evan's journey teaches about resilience and leadership Redefining Victory: Why starting the fight is as important as winning it Forgiveness vs. Justice: How Evan separates healing from accountability Key Actionable Takeaways: Start Small, Spark Big: A single video from a church office launched a national movement—never underestimate the power of one voice taking a stand. Courage Means Acting Anyway: Fear is real, but change begins when you choose to act in spite of it, especially when it matters most. Nonviolence Creates Pressure: Peaceful resistance—through protests, petitions, or public messaging—can shift narratives and mobilize international support. Sustain the Fight with Community: True movements are built through collective participation—invite others in, empower them, and lead with transparency. Stay tuned for more updates, and don't miss our next deep dive on Cut to The Chase: Podcast with Gregg Goldfarb! Subscribe, rate, review, and share this episode of the Cut to the Chase: Podcast! Resources: Buy Evan Mawarire's book, “Crazy Epic Courage”: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSTKC1RT Visit Evan's website: https://www.evanmawarire.org Connect with Evan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanmawarire Follow him on X: https://x.com/PastorEvanLive Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pastorevanlive Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evan.mawarire This episode was produced and brought to you by Reignite Media.
Explaining how and why our world works the way it does touches on so many fields of science: biology, chemistry, physics, and, of course, technology. However, according to researcher Blaise Agüera y Arcas, computation should also be part of the understanding of life on all levels – and going back further than one might think. In What Is Life? Evolution as Computation, Agüera y Arcas uses computation as a means of examining the complexities of our own universe. Inspired by the work of quantum mechanics pioneer Erwin Schrödinger, he revisits the question that has showcased the divide between biology and physics: what is life? How can life and all its attendant complexities come to exist in a random universe, governed by simple laws, whose disorder only increases over time? What Is Life? aims to provide surprising answers, reframing core concepts of self-reproduction, complex growth, and symbiotic relationships as inherently computational. Agüera y Arcas draws on decades of theory and existing literature from figures like Alan Turing and John von Neumann, as well as recent endeavors in the field of artificial life. From evolution and symbiogenesis to thermodynamics and climate models, What Is Life? explores computation as a tool beyond raw calculation to understand intricate phenomena. This volume serves as a first installment of an ongoing body of work, with his larger book What Is Intelligence? further developing this perspective on intelligence from simple organisms to brains and from societies to AI. What Is Life? is richly illustrated and studded with examples, recontextualizing computational concepts and applications for a general audience curious about diving deeper into the machinations of our living world. Blaise Agüera y Arcas is a researcher and author focused on artificial intelligence, sociality, evolution, and software development. He is a VP and Fellow at Google, where he is the CTO of Technology & Society and founder of Paradigms of Intelligence (Pi). He is a frequent speaker at TED and has been featured in the Economist and Noēma, and has previously published the books Who Are We Now? and Ubi Sunt. Charles Tonderai Mudede is a Zimbabwean-born cultural critic, urbanist, filmmaker, college lecturer, and writer. He is the Senior Staff writer of the Stranger, a lecturer at Cornish College of the Arts, and has collaborated with the director Robinson Devor on three films, two of which Police Beat and Zoo, premiered at Sundance, and one of which, Zoo, screened at Cannes, and the most recent of which, Suburban Fury, premiered at New York Film Festival. (Police Beat is now part of MOMA's permanent collection.) Mudede, whose essays regularly appear in e-Flux and Tank Magazine, is also the director of Thin Skin (2023).
In this episode of the Zambezi Belle Podcast, host Dr. Praise talks with Sangwadzi Spiwe, a Zimbabwean immigrant who shares her life journey from growing up in Mutoko, Zimbabwe, to her experiences in the United States and Canada. Sangwadzi discusses her early life, the impact of the liberation war, her family's business, and the challenges of grief after losing loved ones. She emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and spirituality in navigating life's hardships. Additionally, she talks about her work with Arriva House, a nonprofit organization supporting immigrant women and children. In this engaging conversation, Sangwadzi Spiwe shares her profound experiences with HIV awareness, the impact of stigma, and her journey in podcasting. She reflects on her time at the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, her transition to Canada, and the challenges of dating after loss. Sangwadzi emphasizes the importance of maintaining health and vitality, especially as she approaches 70, and offers valuable insights on self-worth and the lessons learned throughout her life.
Prosper Taruvinga is the founder of Live Long Digital, where he helps coaches and consultants scale from six to seven figures with ease and flow. A Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur based in Australia, Prosper blends digital strategy with heart, helping experts stop relying on algorithms and build profitable, enjoyable businesses they love.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to embrace unexpected opportunities, the importance of owning your media, and how building the right community can transform your business success.Prosper and I discuss:Prosper's journey from Zimbabwe to Australia and into digital marketing [00:01:54]The role of mentorship and models in shaping career paths [00:05:02]How Prosper turned being fired into a business opportunity [00:04:01]Navigating economic uncertainty and adaptability [00:05:53]Why owning your media is crucial for entrepreneurs [00:10:12]The tools and platforms Prosper uses to grow his business [00:12:41]Why he transitioned from working with restaurants to coaches and consultants [00:15:04]The biggest mistakes coaches and consultants make—and how to fix them [00:17:50]How to clarify your message and identify your target market [00:18:58]The transformative power of community in business and life [00:21:36]Prosper's thoughts on collaboration and leveraging collective strengths [00:22:00]Learn more about Prosper at https://onlineprosperity.com.au/Thank you to Our Sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityGet ahead with exclusive, easy-to-apply insights from our podcast—subscribe now and make mastering success a part of your routine.
In honor of Everything You Didn't Know About Herbalism officially turning one year old, we are resharing the first-ever episode we released on the series! Featuring Leah Penniman and Lulu Moyo, tune in as we revisit this crucial conversation surrounding the injustices within our food systems and Leah and Lulu's collective goal towards growing lasting change. The Herbal Radio team extends our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for listening and learning with us each week from such an esteemed group of experts within their fields. Now, on with the show! This week on Everything You Didn't Know About Herbalism, we proudly bring you an impactful and galvanizing conversation with two individuals leading the way toward a future of harmony and equity within our food systems. Leah Penniman, the Co-Founder of Soul Fire Farm, and Lulu Moyo, the Co-Director of the Braiding Seeds Fellowship, join us for a thought-provoking conversation surrounding the injustices and deep-rooted racism we continue to face within our food systems today, and their combined missions to facilitate powerful food sovereignty programs and hands-on farming opportunities to train the next generation of activist-farmers and strengthen the movement for food sovereignty and community self-determination. As always, we thank you for joining us on another botanical adventure. We are honored to have you tag along with us on this botanical ride. Remember, we want to hear from you! Your questions, ideas, and who you want to hear from will be invaluable to this new series. So please, email us at podcast@mountainroseherbs.com to let us know what solutions you'd like us to uncover within the vast world of herbalism next. About Leah & Lulu:
Wolves Express: The Official Wolverhampton Wanderers News Update
A Marshall Munetsi stunner earned Wolves a 1-1 draw against Brentford on the final day of the 2024-25 Premier League season. Hear the thoughts of the Zimbabwean on Wolves Express, as well as club legend Lee Naylor and head coach Vitor Pereira following the conclusion of the campaign at Molineux. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In the new season of the Gender at Work podcast – What's Love Got to Do With It? – we ask the question - can love in the vision of Audrey Lord, bell hooks, Martin Luther King, Desmond Tutu, Mahatma Gandhi and so many social justice leaders worldwide, help us in shifting systems of oppression. How does social justice action from the basis of love help us to transform ourselves while also eliminating the profound cruelty and manipulation we see all around us? And how are women and gender equality leaders incorporating these questions and values into their practice? We also explore ideas and practical solutions that are based on love, on connection, coexistence, and understanding. Our opening episode features Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, the Deputy Executive Director of UN Women. Nyaradzayi, a Zimbabwean national and lawyer, who has a long history of activism on issues of women's rights and gender equality. She is the founder and former executive director of the Rosario Memorial Trust in Zimbabwe and prior to that served as the General Secretary of the YWCA. Nyaradzayi was appointed the first African Union Goodwill Ambassador on Ending Child Marriage. What is love? For Nyaradzayi it means “saying no to discrimination”. She says that “we need a world that respects diversities” and that “if we have love, we have courage”. We are inspired by the brave and eloquent feminist warrior who draws on her vast experience to lead with justice from the halls of the UN to rural communities and organizations around the world and who explains how to organize with love.
The start of the men's international summer is here! Mark Butcher, Phil Walker, Ben Gardner and Yas Rana preview the historic one-off Test against Zimbabwe, chat about the latest round of County Championship action, Roston Chase's appointment as West Indies Test captain and more. There's also a snippet of Jo Harman's interview with Zimbabwean stalwart Sean Williams, available to listen to exclusively on Patreon. 0:00 Remitly / 0:48 Intro / 1:20 Patreon / 2:40 Sam Cook / 14:46 Matthew Potts / 16:58 Ben Stokes / 22:25 Zimbabwe / 29:26 Mark Butcher on ENGvZIM / 38:20 Sean Williams interview snippet / 44:18 England's white-ball squads / 47:54 County Championship / 1:03:02 Roston Chase / 1:07:02 WIN a cricket bat / 1:07:56 Outro
Send us a textHello, passionate cruisers! This is Paul and this week on The Joy of Cruising Podcast, I am delighted to welcome Presley Pfereka, a crew member for Azamara luxury cruise line. I have long observed with awe and fascination cruise ship crew from the Captain to entry-level crew members and have hosted on The Joy of Cruising Podcast a cross-section of ship crew, both former as well as active over the past years. I would love to delve into their lives in an in-depth manner both on the home front as well as at sea. I have often noted that if I had the resources this is a book project I would love to pursue. While I can't begin to do justice to that in an hour or so podcast episode, my discussion with Presley affords us a brief, unique look at ship life through her eyes. The variety of crew, staff, officers, and guest performers who have guested on the podcast range from childcare associates to maitre d' to Captains, acrobats, magicians, to guest singers and comedians from all over the world. Presley is my first guest from Zimbabwe, in the Southeastern part of Africa. I first found out about Presley by way of an article I read in Conde Nast Traveler, “What It's Like to Be a Waitress on a Cruise Ship,” by Ashlea Halpern. Presley is a 37-year young lady from Easten Zimbabwe, Manicaland Province. She finished high school and started working at a young age as an organizing secretary for a non-governmental organization). This was after her parents passed on. Presley has two daughters aged 17 and 6. She moved to South Africa in search of greener pastures and worked a variety of jobs. In 2012 Presley met a fellow Zimbabwean who introduced her to Open Distance Learning with the University of South Africa. She enrolled with the University and attained a Higher Certificate in Business Management and then Registered for Bachelor of Commerce In Business Management which she is still pursuing. After coming across an advertisement on LinkedIn regarding cruise ship job interviews to take place in Cape Town in 2023, Presley applied as it was her wish to travel and work on cruise ships. This led to her being hired by Azamara January 2024 as Assistant Waitress. In November 2024 she got promoted to Administration as a Payroll Purser.Find Presley online YouTube: presleypfereka3174TikTok: @Presley PeeInstagram: presley_pee87Facebook: Presley PeeEmail: pee.pfereka@gmail.comSupport the showSupport thejoyofcruisingpodcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113608/supporters/newSupport Me https://www.buymeacoffee.com/drpaulthContact Me https://www.thejoyofcruising.net/contact-me.htmlBook Cruises http://www.thejoyofvacation.com/US Orders (coupon code joyofcruisingpodcast)The Joy of Cruising https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingCruising Interrupted https://bit.ly/CruisingInterruptedThe Joy of Cruising Again https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingAgainIntl Orders via Amazon
Behind every Afropop YouTube megahit and dancefloor sensation, there is a producer, a beat-maker striving to imagine the next big thing, basically inventing the future. In part 2 this two-part podcast, we meet Dami TNT, a rising producer in Lagos, Nigeria. And we hear a discussion between Zimbabwean producer Kooldrink, Pierre Kwenders of the Moonshine Afro-house about beats, tempos, and the emergence of super-fast youth music, like Tanzania's singeli, in urban African centers. Produced by Banning Eyre PA 038
In this episode of 'The Last 10%', host Dallas Burnett welcomes Evan Mawarire, a Zimbabwean pastor known for his leadership in the 'This Flag' movement against the dictatorship of Robert Mugabe. Evan shares his incredible journey from recording a viral rant in his church office to mobilizing a national uprising. He discusses the challenges of facing hyperinflation, the courage to lead non-violent resistance, and the trials of imprisonment. Despite facing immense danger, Evan's journey is a testament to the power of conviction, courage, and collective action. His story underscores the importance of showing up, leading by example, and empowering others to fight for justice and change. Evan continues to inspire as an author and motivational speaker.Connect with Evan Mawarire - https://www.evanmawarire.org/
Telecoms magnate Strive Masiyiwa escaped kidnap to become Zimbabwe's first billionaire.BBC business editor Simon Jack and journalist Zing Tsjeng tell Masiyiwa's story from a youth fleeing post-colonial conflict, through education in the UK, to enormous wealth delivering mobile phone and internet technology across Africa.The podcast that tells tales of titans of technology, Wall Street moguls, pop stars, sporting legends, CEOs and entrepreneurs also details Masiyiwa's many court battles and run-ins with Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe. Then Simon and Zing decide if Masiyiwa is good, bad, or just another billionaire.
In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Evan Mawarire, Zimbabwean pastor, global human rights advocate, and fearless founder of the #ThisFlag movement. Evan became a global symbol of nonviolent resistance when his heartfelt video recorded in frustration and hope ignited a nationwide call for justice in Zimbabwe.We dive deep into the origin of #ThisFlag, the unimaginable risks he took to speak truth to power, and how he found strength through faith, values, and storytelling. Evan opens up about writing his book Crazy Epic Courage and the most difficult moments of his journey - from imprisonment to exile, and what true courage really feels like in the face of fear.You'll learn what it takes to build a movement grounded in purpose, how to lead with integrity under pressure, and why resilience is born in the darkest valleys. Whether you're a business leader, activist, or changemaker, Evan's story will move and empower you to lead with conviction, even when the stakes are high.
Episode 173 with Edwin Tambara, Director of Global Leadership at the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF). Edwin shares AWF's groundbreaking approach to the biodiversity economy, an innovative model that integrates conservation and economic development, driving both environmental preservation and community prosperity.AWF has played a pivotal role in supporting Zimbabwe's biodiversity economy, from nature-based tourism and wildlife conservation to the commercialisation of non-timber forest products. Through its work, AWF demonstrates that conservation can be a powerful driver of economic development, creating jobs, enhancing livelihoods, and attracting private investment. Edwin takes us through the challenges and successes of aligning conservation goals with economic agendas and how the African Wildlife Foundation is empowering local communities to become stewards of their natural resources.This episode offers a fascinating look at how biodiversity is becoming a key asset for Africa's future, showcasing how conservation and sustainable development go hand in hand to create a thriving, green economy.What We Discuss With EdwinThe vision behind AWF's Biodiversity Economies initiative and its role in driving sustainable economic growth in Africa.How AWF is working with the Zimbabwean government to integrate biodiversity into national economic planning and development.The impact of nature-based tourism and non-timber forest products on Zimbabwe's economy and rural livelihoods.How AWF is overcoming challenges of aligning conservation with economic agendas, particularly in Zimbabwe's remote regions.AWF's approach to promoting private investment in biodiversity economies and attracting sustainable financing for conservation projects.Did you miss my previous episode where I discuss Expanding Financial Access: Building a Marketplace for Agrocommodity Trade and Export in Nigeria? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser:LinkedIn - Terser AdamuInstagram - unlockingafricaTwitter (X) - @TerserAdamuConnect with Edwin:LinkedIn - Edwin TambaraTwitter - @EdwinTambaraDo you want to do business in Africa? Explore the vast business opportunities in African markets and increase your success with ETK Group. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.ukSubscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and bonus material - Unlocking Africa Newsletter
Today on a very special episode of The Grave Plot Podcast... it's episode 250! To mark this monumental milestone, we're throwing it back to some of the "movies that made us." We're talking about some of the horror movies that really got our gears moving and introduced us to this wonderful genre we've come to know, love, and celebrate for the past 11+ years, namely An American Werewolf in London and Idle Hands! Hold on, dude, hold on. We know you're excited but first we have to take care of some business. Horror Business! In Real World Horror, we discuss a Zimbabwean professor who is plagued by supernatural fires. Or has herpes. Either way, f*cked up, right? We also head to the east coast for Blobfest, discuss a duo of trilogies, and try to Bring Her Back so she can Talk 2 Me. We also look at yet another Stephen King adaptation from Mike Flanagan and a former Police Academy standout now on the wrong side of the law. So strap in tight and join us for a big, giant episode 250!
KeywordsEvan, Zimbabwe, Bitcoin, economic collapse, hyperinflation, freedom, human rights, activism, community support, MugabeSummaryEvan shares his powerful journey from Zimbabwe, detailing the severe economic collapse and hyperinflation that led him to use Bitcoin as a tool for freedom. His viral video sparked a movement, leading to protests and his eventual arrest. Despite facing brutal conditions, Evan's story highlights the resilience of the Zimbabwean people and the importance of community support in the fight for human rights and dignity.TakeawaysEvan's journey began in Zimbabwe during a severe economic collapse.Hyperinflation in Zimbabwe reached an astonishing 286 million percent.The viral video sparked a movement for change in Zimbabwe.Community support played a crucial role in Evan's activism.Evan faced multiple arrests and imprisonment for his activism.The importance of finding tools for financial freedom, like Bitcoin.Evan's story illustrates the resilience of the human spirit.The impact of government oppression on ordinary citizens.Evan's return to Zimbabwe was a courageous decision.Bitcoin represents a tool for liberation in oppressive regimes.Chapters00:00 Bitcoin Park: A Community Space for Bitcoiners02:11 Evan's Journey: From Zimbabwe to Bitcoin Advocacy05:30 Hyperinflation in Zimbabwe: A Personal Account08:18 The Impact of Economic Collapse on Families11:14 The Viral Video: Sparking a Movement14:27 Finding Freedom Through Bitcoin17:15 Challenging the Status Quo: Activism in Zimbabwe20:25 Communicating Complex Issues Simply23:19 Debating Monetary Policy: A Bold Move27:32 Facing Consequences: Arrest and Imprisonment30:40 Unexpected Support: The Power of Community33:46 Escaping Danger: A Risky Journey37:00 The Struggles of Leaving Everything Behind40:48 Returning to Zimbabwe: A Brave Decision44:49 The Fight Against Oppression46:16 The Fall of a Dictator46:45 Reuniting with Family48:15 Lessons on Bitcoin and Freedom
In a special episode of the podcast, the 2 uncs, Dan & Phil, sit down with a YN from South Africa with a lot of motion behind him. Kindly Nxsh is originally Zimbabwean, and he's the hottest property in the new wave of SA Hip-Hop. Fresh off his collaborations with Nasty C & Blxckie, the 2BT Bump is sure to take him to even greater heights. Enjoy this collision between generations!Subscribe and listen to 2 Broke Twimbos everywhere podcasts are available and keep up with all things 2BT via this link:2BT LinkPlease rate and review, and support us on Patreon!
267: “It all has to be in alignment. I have to be living very honestly in order to do my most honest work. And honesty is a fundamental requirement for the work that I do. I find that if I'm not living honestly, and it doesn't have to be a hundred percent, if I'm not living honestly in ways that are actually very important, I actually can't show up for my work in the way that I need to.” ~ Africa BrookeThis soul-baring conversation between Chelsea and Africa dives deep into self-censorship, shadow work, heartbreak, and the raw journey of sobriety. Together, they explore how our patterns in love and life reveal the unhealed parts of ourselves - the ones we try to tame, cage up, and discard. Yet the truth is: owning and integrating these parts and reclaiming our voice is a revolutionary act. Listen closely.Africa Brooke is a Zimbabwean-born consultant, developmental coach, speaker, and author of "The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in The Age of Intolerance." She is known for her work in overcoming self-sabotage and self-censorship. As the founder and CEO of Africa Brooke International, she provides consulting and coaching to a global audience. She hosts two personal development podcasts, “Beyond the Self” and “Unthinkable Thoughts,” and is a frequent guest on TV, podcasts, and radio. Her insights have been featured in publications like The Guardian, and she has delivered keynotes at venues like Cambridge University.“What happens when we believe that there's a higher cost to telling the truth than to pretending?”“I decided to suffer out loud, and that was going against so many rules... I was just speaking into the void.”“I would choose people that I perceive to be lesser than me in some way, so that I get to be the superior one in the relationship... but it's me they're showing me.”“Instead of chasing the new self-concept of ‘I'm a good person,' I had to accept all the shadowy components of myself and humanize myself.”“Be okay with talking about your interests... because that's what makes it erotic. That's what creates magnetism.”This episode is a masterclass in emotional honesty, self-responsibility, and embracing the full spectrum of who we are. Chelsea and Africa remind us that the path to empowered relationships and aligned work begins with radical truth-telling - to ourselves first.Connect with Chelsea:
President Trump has signed an executive order to dismantle the US Department of Education. Also: the Zimbabwean former swimmer, Kirsty Coventry, becomes first female president of the International Olympic Committee.
“We didn't harvest anything at all” – Zimbabwean resident Hlengiwe Moyo Today, Africa Daily's Mpho Lakaje focuses on Zimbabwe, one of several southern African countries recently hit by a prolonged drought. Seven million people are now desperate for food assistance. The World Food Programme, along with several nations, partnered to donate bags of maize, pulses and cooking oil. Other countries that were hardest hit include Zambia and Malawi. Namibia even resorted to slaughtering wild animals such as hippos, elephants and zebras, to feed its people. The situation became so bad that Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a national disaster to tackle the prolonged drought crisis. Guests: Ish Mafundikwa, Regina Vurayayi and Hlengiwe Moyo
ZIMBABWE RETURNED: Are mermaids real in Zimbabwe? We're revisiting Zimbabwe in this refresher episode from season 2, focusing on the wonders of Great Zimbabwe and the lore of the murderous mermaids in Zimbabwe.In this episode, we're diving into Zimbabwe's rich history and captivating folklore while asking the question: Are mermaids real?! Join us as we explore the legendary Great Zimbabwe Ruins, home to one of the most impressive ancient civilisations in Africa. We also uncover the mystique of Zimbabwean mermaid folklore, locally known as Mondau, and their deep cultural significance. From Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya) to fascinating tales of dams, spirits, and history, Zimbabwe's heritage is truly extraordinary. Tune in for a fun mix of history, folklore, and laughter!Key Highlights:Great Zimbabwe Ruins: Learn about the once-thriving kingdom that was a major trade hub for gold and iron over 1,200 years ago.Discover how the Shona people built the famous stone structures, rivaling ancient cities like Rome.Fun fact: The ruins of Great Zimbabwe were rumored to have supplied King Solomon's gold mentioned in the Bible!Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya): Dubbed "The Smoke That Thunders," this majestic waterfall is the largest in the world by combined width and height.Activities around the falls: bungee jumping, Devil's Pool swim, and wildlife sightings in Zambezi National Park.Zimbabwe Mermaids (Mondau): Fascinating stories of mermaid sightings and their connection to local dams and rivers.The cultural belief in mermaids as ancestral spirits and their role in protecting the rivers.Government involvement in appeasing mermaids after workers refused to continue dam repairs.Superstitions and Spirituality: How the Shona people's traditions reflect a deep connection with nature and spirituality.Rituals to appease river spirits and the striking contrast with modern infrastructure projects.Interesting Facts About Zimbabwe:Zimbabwe's history of being a global trading hub.Harare's meaning as the "house of stone," linking back to Great Zimbabwe.The country's unique beliefs about wealth, potbellies, and prosperity.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The significance of Great Zimbabwe and its forgotten legacy.The mystery of mermaids in Zimbabwe and its ties to the culture and natural resources.Why Zimbabwe is an underrated travel destination for both history lovers and adventure seekers.Text for a shoutout! Support the showWant your episodes early? Sign up HERE to the newsletter. You will get episodes a week early!Connect:Instagram: @culturecultshowEmail: culturecultshow@gmail.comSend in your best travel story to share on the podcast via voice message or email:culturecultshow@gmail.comTo Help Aseel Escape Gaza:Follow her and support her on Instagram! : @aseel_dentartDonate to her Go Fund Me ( ANY amount helps)To Help Sally Escape Gaza:Follow her and support her on Instagram!: @sallyhjeerDonate to her Go Fund Me ( ANY amount helps)
How did a guitarist save an entire cruise ship? Today we are covering the shocking story of Moss Hills, a Zimbabwean guitarist who became an unexpected hero. Imagine this: the Oceanos cruise ship begins sinking off the treacherous coast of South Africa. With no help from the captain or crew, it was Moss Hills who stepped up, coordinating a daring rescue that saved 571 lives.This isn't just a tale of bravery—it's a deep dive into maritime history, Zimbabwe's rich cultural legacy, and what happens when someone rises to the occasion against all odds. From exploring Zimbabwe's fascinating past to recounting the chaos aboard the Oceanos sinking, this episode will leave you on the edge of your seat. Plus, we discuss everything from Great Zimbabwe to fun facts about caves and waterfalls!Highlights in this EpisodeMoss Hills' Oceanos cruise ship sinking rescue: How a musician became a lifesaver.The Sinking of the Oceanos: The shocking actions of Captain Yannis Avranis and his crew during the disaster.Zimbabwe's rich culture: Discover Great Zimbabwe, Matobo rock art, and the awe-inspiring Chinhoyi Caves.Behind the scenes of the Oceanos sinking: How dangerous waters, an aging ship, and negligence led to one of the most miraculous maritime rescues.Laughs and facts: Our thoughts on cruise ships, surviving disasters, and how we'd react in Moss's shoes.Key Takeaways from ZimbabweGreat Zimbabwe was a global trading hub in ancient times, connected as far as China and Persia.Zimbabwe holds the Guinness World Record for most official languages (16!) and has seen a remarkable 600% increase in its rhino population since 2014.Want to explore Zimbabwe? Don't miss the Chinhoyi Caves or the majestic baobab trees!Text for a shoutout! Support the showWant your episodes early? Sign up HERE to the newsletter. You will get episodes a week early!Connect:Instagram: @culturecultshowEmail: culturecultshow@gmail.comSend in your best travel story to share on the podcast via voice message or email:culturecultshow@gmail.comTo Help Aseel Escape Gaza:Follow her and support her on Instagram! : @aseel_dentartDonate to her Go Fund Me ( ANY amount helps)To Help Sally Escape Gaza:Follow her and support her on Instagram!: @sallyhjeerDonate to her Go Fund Me ( ANY amount helps)
More Info on the Show: https://rhr.tv- Fold goes public on NASDAQ - FLD https://x.com/SchwabNetwork/status/1892319634185212341- VanEck Employee Claims Jack Dorsey is Satoshi https://x.com/matthew_sigel/status/1891852538376487327- Brink renews grants for the 8 bitcoin core engineers they support https://x.com/bitschmidty/status/1887559865050018285- Bitwise Donates $150k of ETF Profit to OpenSats, HRF, and Brink https://x.com/BitwiseInvest/status/1891865302729883754- Argentina's Milei Faces Fraud Charges, Impeachment Calls After Failed Memecoin Launch https://www.nobsbitcoin.com/argentinas-milei-faces-fraud-charges-impeachment-calls-after-failed-memecoin-launch/- Unbank partners with Voltage to bring Lightning payments to 40,000 locations https://www.voltage.cloud/blog/unbank-teams-up-with-voltage-to-bring-lightning-fast-bitcoin-transactions-to-40-000-locations-including-walgreens-and-cvs- Nigeria appears to have swapped Binance Executive Tigran Gambaryan for US "resources and expertise" to fight illicit finance in a secret deal with the State Department https://www.therage.co/the-cost-of-gambaryan/- iOS v18.3.1 update fixes security flaw used in sophisticated attacks https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/02/ios-18-3-1-update-fixes-security-flaw-used-in-extremely-sophisticated-attack/Zimbabwe | Ordinary Citizens Pay Price of Deeply Indebted RegimeZimbabwe's debt crisis has pushed 7.6 million people into food insecurity as an El niño-driven drought worsens an economy already horribly mismanaged and exploited by a military dictatorship. The roots of this crisis run deep. Former tyrant Robert Mugabe's land seizures in the early 2000s shattered agricultural output, wiped out foreign investment, and unleashed hyperinflation that erased Zimbabweans' savings and wages. Decades of economic mismanagement drained the national resources and exacerbated food insecurity. Now, ordinary citizens shoulder the cost of regime failures. Families who once farmed their own land depend on expensive food imports they can't afford, while the bankrupt regime pleads for more dollar-based loans — only to weaken the local currency and sink the country further into debt.- Fountain App v1.1.16: Nostr Live Streams & Storage Manager https://www.nobsbitcoin.com/fountain-v1-1-16/- COLDCARD EDGE Release: Versions 6.3.5X (Mk4) and 6.3.5QX (Q) https://blog.coinkite.com/edge-635/- Bisq v1.9.19 & Bisq2 v2.1.6: Updates and Security Improvements https://www.nobsbitcoin.com/bisq-v1-9-19-bisq2-v2-1-6/- Alby Hub v1.14.2: Basic Swap Functionality, Home Widgets & More https://www.nobsbitcoin.com/alby-hub-v1-14-2/0:00 - Intro3:05 - Opening riff6:50 - Trump & New Tech cabal20:45 - Dashboard22:18 - FLD on NASDAQ25:45 - Is Jack Satoshi?32:59 - Grants37:53 - Milei's scam46:21 - Unbank Voltage52:09 - Trump banning congestion pricing56:47 - Nigeria Gambaryan deal1:00:16 - Fort Knox1:06:26 - iOS security patch1:06:58 - HRF Story of the Week1:12:58 - Boost1:13:09 - Software updates1:18:32 - AI is ruining RHR1:22:26 - Reorg shillShoutout to our sponsors:Unchainedhttps://unchained.com/rhr/Bitkeyhttps://bitkey.world/Stakworkhttps://stakwork.ai/Coinkitehttps://coinkite.com/TFTC Merch is Available:Shop Nowhttps://merch.tftc.io/Join the TFTC Movement:Main YT Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TFTC21/videosClips YT Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUQcW3jxfQfEUS8kqR5pJtQWebsitehttps://tftc.io/Twitterhttps://twitter.com/tftc21Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/tftc.io/Follow Marty Bent:Twitterhttps://twitter.com/martybentNewsletterhttps://tftc.io/martys-bent/Podcasthttps://tftc.io/podcasts/Follow Odell:Nostrhttps://primal.net/odellNewsletterhttps://discreetlog.com/Podcasthttps://citadeldispatch.com/
The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights is holding a public hearing in Tanzania, on a case filed by DR Congo against Rwanda. The country accuses Rwanda of violating its sovereignty, orchestrating violence, and destabilizing the DRC. Rwanda denies the accusations. How significant is this? Also, a look at the growing economic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and Zimbabwe. What difference does it make to ordinary Zimbabweans?And why a separatist fighter in Cameroon handed over his weapons to become a teacher..Presenter: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Phillip Bull Producers: Sunita Nahar, Stefania Okereke, Yvette Twagiramariya and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi
On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, Pastor Evan Mawarire joins us in an insightful conversation about the complexities of faith, the pursuit of happiness, and the importance of re-evaluating our core values. Pastor Evan Mawarire's journey is a testament to the power of courage, faith, and resilience in overcoming adversity. From his humble beginnings to becoming a voice of hope for millions, his story reflects the transformative power of self-belief and the pursuit of a higher purpose. In a candid conversation, Pastor Mawarire shares the lessons he learned during his darkest hours and how they shaped his vision of life and faith. You're listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let's go. Pastor Evan Mawarire on the Courage to Defy Social Norms Pastor Evan's journey highlights the importance of stepping outside the molds imposed by societal norms. Reflecting on how society often dictates expectations, he shares how breaking free from these conventions unlocked opportunities and insights he could never have imagined. “Once I broke that, I started seeing things I could never have seen no matter how much money I had paid." - Pastor Evan Mawarire This defiance wasn't about rebellion for its own sake but rather a quest for authenticity and self-discovery. His story reminds us that courage lies in questioning long-standing beliefs and seeking our own truth, even when it challenges conventional wisdom. The Power of Mental Scaffolding In a powerful metaphor, Pastor Evan compares the structures of our thinking to scaffolding—a temporary framework essential for building something greater. He emphasizes how reshaping our mental scaffolding can transform our relationship with reality. Whether in personal growth or societal movements, the way we perceive and articulate our struggles determines our capacity to overcome them. Pastor Evan's insights serve as a reminder that redefining our mental frameworks is key to achieving greatness. The Unsure Journey Back to Faith For those curious about faith or feeling disconnected, Pastor Evan offers an inclusive perspective. He acknowledges the doubt and uncertainty many feel when exploring spirituality. “Jesus just loves people with doubt,” he affirms. Drawing from his experiences, including moments of despair in maximum-security prison, he highlights how vulnerability and honesty can pave the way to spiritual connection. His message is clear: the journey back to faith doesn't require perfection or certainty—just a willingness to knock on the door. By embracing doubt and curiosity, anyone can begin to uncover a deeper sense of purpose and belonging. To hear more from Pastor Evan Mawarire and how to lead with love and resistance, download and listen to this episode. Bio Evan Mawarire is a Zimbabwean clergyman who founded #ThisFlag Citizen's Movement to challenge corruption, injustice, and poverty in Zimbabwe. The movement empowers citizens to hold government to account. Through viral videos, the movement has organized multiple successful non-violent protests in response to unjust government policy. Pastor Evan was imprisoned in 2016, 2017, and 2019 for charges of treason, facing 80 years in prison. His message of inspiring positive social change and national pride has resonated with diverse groups of citizens and attracted international attention. Pastor Evan has addressed audiences around the world, and Foreign Policy magazine named him one of the 100 global thinkers of 2016. The Daily Maverick Newspaper of South Africa named him 2016 African person of the year. Evan is a 2018 Stanford University Fellow of the Centre for Democracy Development and the Rule of Law. Links Connect with Pastor Evan Mawarire! Renew Democracy Initiative | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook More information about Pastor Evan Mawarire