The Not Sorry podcast has dropped episode three, titled 'Our Parents Broke Us.' The four hosts, Seemah Mangolwane, Nomthandazo Nkosi, Rei Nkuna, and Munaka Muthambi, open up about their family dynamics, revealing traumatic experiences and a deep desire for healing.
The hosts' conversations are relatable, raw, and honest, leaving listeners stunned and appreciative of their vulnerability. Nomthandazo Nkosi shared that her mother, now in her forties, wants to live vicariously through her, citing a 'level of control' she doesn't want to let go of. 'There is a level of wanting to live through your kids. This is where I am now, and parents are not comfortable with you not apologising because they want you to apologise that they're hurt, and as if you're not going to do it again,' she said.
Rei Nkuna's story is heart-wrenching, as she recounts how her parents hardly ever celebrate her achievements. They call her a 'straatmate' at some point, suggesting they never acknowledged her accomplishments. 'My parents don't celebrate me at all. They don't say things like I'm proud of you, you did good,' Rei shared.
Munaka Muthambi's experience with her mother, who remarried after divorce, has left her feeling neglected. 'I would rather stay divorced for the rest of my life than to bring another man to raise my kids. Because I feel like they did not discuss how to raise a child, and sometimes growing up, I felt like she chose him (stepfather) because she was trying to balance that dynamic of, I really want to have a husband, but I also want to be a mom.'
Seemah Mangolwane's conversation with her mother is also a highlight of the episode, as she recounts how her mother didn't always encourage her to speak up. 'I wish my mom listened to me more. I also feel like she has an impact on me, not being able to articulate myself,' she said.
The hosts' openness has sparked conversations on family dynamics, trauma, and healing, with many viewers marking this episode as the most relatable and profound thus far.
Key Facts:
- The Not Sorry podcast is hosted by Seemah Mangolwane, Nomthandazo Nkosi, Rei Nkuna, and Munaka Muthambi.
- The hosts shared their personal stories of family dynamics, trauma, and healing.
- Nomthandazo Nkosi's mother wants to live vicariously through her.
- Rei Nkuna's parents rarely celebrate her achievements.
- Munaka Muthambi's mother remarried after divorce and chose a stepfather to raise her children.
By sharing their experiences, Seemah, Nomthandazo, Rei, and Munaka have made writing about family dynamics a space for healing, growth, and understanding. They've reminded us that healing is not a solo journey and that opening up can be a powerful step towards mending relationships and finding closure. Their collective voice has helped to show that it's possible to heal and move forward, even in the face of trauma and adversity.