The Pen and Pulse Podcast

Phiwe Mhlope

Amplifying young African voices at home and in the diaspora thus, adding to the global discourse of making home a better place. On each episode, I deep dive into conversations with authors, influencers, writers, entertainers and thought leaders, social and political commentators, and friends. We talk about literature, writing, politics, technology and maybe a general philosophy of life. New Episode every other Friday. Subscribe to my Newsletter for more in-depth perspectives.

  1. 09/11/2025

    On Faith & Community, Charity, Self-discovery, Values & A Life Well Lived | Sharon Matongo I EP15

    ----------------------------------------------------------------⚠️ Note: Some sections have a slight 🎙️ echo on the host’s audio.We decided to keep the conversation as is because of its value.🙏 Thanks for listening and supporting! ---------------------------------------------------------------- ✝️ Guest’s Correction (49:27): Sharon wants to clarify — “On rewatching this, she misrepresented what the Bible teaches. No one attains eternal life with God except through Jesus, even if they lived a ‘morally good’ life.” ----------------------------------------------------------------This is a conversation with Sharon Matongo, a legal scholar and education advocate, co-founder of Charity Drive Zimbabwe, graduate of Columbia Law School, and a Kofi Annan Changemaker. She shares her life experiences from home and abroad, the challenges of navigating a career path, and the importance of community.In this discussion, we explore the complexities of faith, morality, and religion, the concept of redemptive history, and the role of sacrifice in Christianity. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural values, identifying one’s core values, and appreciating the nuances of individual experiences in new environments. We also examine the challenges faced by nonprofits in Africa and conclude with reflections on a life well lived, highlighting the significance of curiosity and the pursuit of meaningful goals. Hope you enjoy!Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:45 Exploring Co-operate Life02:40 life in New York vs life in Zim03:48 Reflections on Individualism & Community08:31 Pressure of Success and Identity12:50 Exploring Infrastructure and Energy Development in Africa20:38 On Pressure Following Viral Speech24:57 The Concept of Home27:33 Books, Reading and Timothy Keller30:17 Rediscovering Faith & a Church Community in a New Environment 45:25 The Intersection of Morality and Religion58:10 The Nature of Christian Doctrines & a Relationship with God1:05:37 The Spiritual Experience and Its Evidence1:08:12 The Identity of Jesus in Different Religions1:11:08 Redemptive History and God's Plan1:17:50 Charity and Its Disconnect in Africa1:21:30 The Role of Nonprofits vs. Business in Development1:25:24 On Pursuing Policy Advocacy1:26:21 Reflections on Upbringing and Personal Growth1:34:27 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Understanding Core Values1:41:09 Favorite Book1:42:25 Digital Nomadic life & Algorithms1:45:53 Literary Reflections: Crime and Punishment, Born A Crime, The Dictator's Handbook1:52:31 Life Philosophies and Personal Mantras1:55:11 The Writer's Journey: Why We Write1:59:10 Writing through mimicry 1:59:51 Navigating the Landscape of Ideas2:03:27 Defining a Life Well Lived➡️Suggest A guest or sign up to feature as a guest:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EqDjF6eBp01oLq5BWkDiACgeo4NJ5taoAsz0_OaPfoo/preview----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------📲 Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepenandpulsepodTwitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlopeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepenandpulsepod🔗 Check out my website: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share and Turn on Notifications!:https://www.youtube.com/@UCznNtAguf40a4UMSWUklkJw or leave a nice comment, or just say hie. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Music Attribution:Track Title: Kid KodiArtist: Blue Dot SessionsSource: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Skittle/Kid_Kodi/License: Creative Commons CC BY-NC 4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/Changes Made: No changes made.

  2. 09/04/2025

    Book—3:15AM, On African Literature, the Immigrant Story & Writing | Rudo D. Manyere |EP 14

    In this conversation with Rudo D Manyere—writer and author of "3:15AM & Other Stories", we explore the emotional journey of writing, the complexities of cultural identity and family dynamics and social medial and mental health. Rudo shares insights into her writing journey and process, challenges of navigating personal growth amidst cultural challenges, and her personal connections to her narratives. We also discuss historical contexts that shape writing, personal and psychological experiences that influence storytelling, the importance of African Literature, and perceptions on it. Tune in for a very laid back intriguing conversation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Discovering Rudo's Work 02:27 Who is Rudo and where's she's from. 06:16 Writing as a longing for Home 09:48 The Emotional Landscape of Writing 15:04 Writing a Second Book 15:33 Inspiration & Action in writing 16:11 Reflections on Migration, Navigating Parental Relationships and Emotional Clashes 22:42 Importance of Direct Communication 24:45 Sharing Parts of You in Writing. 25:47 Writing Growth from Primary School 28:20 The Evolution of Writing to more authentic storytelling 29:48 Discovering African Literature 34:02 Reading only African Literature 36:02 How 3:15 AM, the book came about 38:30 Favorite story from the book 48:00 Exploring Themes in Stories and Personal Connections 51:17 On Character Creation & Development 55:02 Struggling with Reading the Classic Novels 57:00 Writing Historical Fiction 1:01:00 Personal Impact of the Stories on the self 1:06:30 Afro-Surrealism 1:08:00 Diverse Genres in African Literature & Stereotypes 1:13:22 Curating African Literature Reviews Content 1:15:38 On the Writing Process 1:18:19 Writing Influences 1:23:08 The Role of Emotion in writing 1:24:18 Man writing Romance 1:27:37 Where authentic stories come from 1:30:26 Nostalgia and Music in the Creative Process 1:34:40 Content Creation and Community Engagement 1:36:00 A Philosophy on life ➡️Suggest A guest or sign up to feature as a guest: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EqDjF6eBp01oLq5BWkDiACgeo4NJ5taoAsz0_OaPfoo/preview 📱Follow Rudo Manyere: @WhatsRudoReading Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsrudoreading/ Twitter: https://x.com/RudoManyere ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 📲 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepenandpulsepod Twitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlope TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepenandpulsepod 🔗 Check out my website: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share and Turn on Notifications!: https://www.youtube.com/@UCznNtAguf40a4UMSWUklkJw or leave a nice comment, or just say hie. 📚Mentioned Literature 1. "3:15 AM & Other Stories", Rudo D Manyere https://a.co/d/1MGj3u2 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music Attribution: Track Title: Kid Kodi Artist: Blue Dot Sessions Source: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Skittle/Kid_Kodi/ License: Creative Commons CC BY-NC 4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Changes Made: No changes made.

  3. 01/24/2025

    Unpacking the Book: 'Who Will Bury You? And Other Stories', Lessons on Writing & Life | Dr Chido Muchemwa |EP13

    In this conversation with Dr Chido Muchemwa: writer and author of "Who Will Bury You and Other Stories", I had the pleasure of delving into the intricacies of writing, exploring themes of identity, loss, migration, family narratives, dreams and societal expectations. Chido shares insights into her writing process, the significance of her latest book and the importance of representing marginalized voices, particularly in the context of queer and African narratives. This discussion highlights the balance between personal experiences and fictional storytelling, as well as the challenges and joys of being a writer in today's world. She also discusses the challenges faced by African authors, navigating the publishing landscape, the role of workshops and value of MFA programs. Tune for a very laid back intriguing conversation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:52 How Phiwe discovered the book. 04:28 Exploring the Title: Who Will Bury You? 05:30 How much of the Fiction is based on real experiences 07:47 Chido's Writing Journey 09:46 The Writer's Process: Creating Characters 10:30 What is the Purpose of Writing 13:03 Should you write for an ideal audience? 13:55 Writing Common Experiences: Marriage Pressure as an adult 18:09 Favorite stories in the book 21:00 Writing Queer Narratives 26:00 The Fight For Marginalized Voices 29:00 Exploring Acceptance in Queer Narratives 32:00 Nuances of Parental Acceptance 34:00 Homelessness and Belonging 38:18 Beliefs in Mermaids, Magic and the Supernatural 40:01 African Stories in Western Spaces 47:38 On Father-Daughter Relationships & Expressing Emotions 52:50 The Search for Meaning in Life and Dreams 57:14 Writing Routine and Process 01:00:00 Navigating the Publishing Landscape 01:02:23 Role of Writing Workshops & Blogs 01:06:53 Role of MFA Programs 01:09:58 Writing Influences and Inspirations 01:13:58 Making money As A Writer 01:19:12 Nutty O Favorite Artist 01:20:08 Advice for Aspiring and Young Writers ➡️Suggest A guest or sign up to feature as a guest: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EqDjF6eBp01oLq5BWkDiACgeo4NJ5taoAsz0_OaPfoo/preview 📱Follow Chido Muchwemwa: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chidomuchemwa/ Twitter: https://x.com/chidomuchemwa Website: https://chidotmuchemwa.wordpress.com/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 📲 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepenandpulsepod Twitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlope TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepenandpulsepod 🔗 Check out my website: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share and Turn on Notifications!: https://www.youtube.com/@UCznNtAguf40a4UMSWUklkJw or leave a nice comment, or just say hie. 📚Mentioned Literature 1. "Who Will Bury You and Other Stories", Chido Muchemwa https://houseofanansi.com/products/who-will-bury-you? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music Attribution: Track Title: Kid Kodi Artist: Blue Dot Sessions Source: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Skittle/Kid_Kodi/ License: Creative Commons CC BY-NC 4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Changes Made: No changes made.

  4. 01/17/2025

    Importance of African Voices, Role of Alternative Media & Banning Podcast Mics | Phiwe Mhlope |EP12

    In this solo episode I share the vision for the show, emphasizing the importance of amplifying African voices and discussing literature, politics, and culture. I reflect on my journey as a writer and the need for a platform that fosters meaningful conversations about African narratives. The episode also highlights the role of alternative media in providing diverse perspectives and the significance of building a community around shared interests in writing and culture. I also attempt to make a case why we shouldn't ban podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the PenAndPulsePodcast 01:25 Why Solo Episode 05:38 Where's my cohost? 06:43 Why the PenAndPulse Name 11:41 College Debate Nostalgia 16:00 Where affinity for Politics comes from 17:00 The Importance of Alternative Media 25:33 The Goals and Vision of the Podcast 30:00 Invite to come on the show ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 📲 Follow us on social media: Instagram:   / thepenandpulsepod   Twitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlope TikTok:   / thepenandpulsepod   🔗 Check out my website and Newsletter: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share and Turn on Notifications!:    / @thepenandpulsepodcast   or leave a nice comment, or just say hie. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music Attribution: Track Title: Kid Kodi Artist: Blue Dot Sessions Source: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Bl... License: Creative Commons CC BY-NC 4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Changes Made: No changes made

  5. 01/10/2025

    On the pursuit of truth, Idea Exchange, Activism & Role of Media| Valentine Makoni | EP11

    In this conversation, I have the pleasure of interviewing my longtime friend Valentine Makoni, who is a writer, debate enthusiast, and creative thinker. We explore various themes including cultural traditions, the significance of music and performance, the pursuit of truth in debate, the impact of ideas on society, and the role of activism in the media. We also reflect on our personal experiences and the broader implications of these themes in contemporary life, exploring the complexities of navigating creative expression in a world fraught with the fear of cancellation. We also discuss the importance of finding alternative sources of sustenance to maintain artistic integrity, the evolution of writing as a medium for preserving thoughts, and the challenges of engaging with politics in a toxic environment. The dialogue also touches on the disillusionment felt by many Zimbabweans and the personal preferences in hip hop, particularly the contrasting styles of Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole. Enjoy! Chapters: 00:00 Intro 05:19 Winky D New Year Concert 09:00 The Pursuit of Truth 11:17 College Debate & Idea Exchange 16:00 Substitutes for Truth 19:00 Activism & The Role of Media 27:00 Alternative Media & Propaganda Antidotes 29:00 Navigating Cancellation 34:32 The Power of Writing and the Creative Pursuit 43:00 Reading and Knowledge Consumption 49:00 Engaging with Politics in Toxic Environments 56:00 The Art of Hip Hop, J Cole vs Kendrick Lamar 📱Follow Valentine: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valentinewrite_/ Twitter: https://x.com/Valentinewrite_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valentinermakoni ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 📲 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepenandpulsepod Twitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlope TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepenandpulsepod 🔗 Check out my website: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share and Turn on Notifications!: https://www.youtube.com/@UCznNtAguf40a4UMSWUklkJw or leave a nice comment, or just say hie. 📚Mentioned Literature #49 Crushes :https://valentinemakoni.co.zw/books/49crushes/ Phiwe's 25th Birthday Ebook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w2yohbwUK7ZO4O3VWEbPc90ibjrzbNES/view ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music Attribution: Track Title: Kid Kodi Artist: Blue Dot Sessions Source: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Skittle/Kid_Kodi/ License: Creative Commons CC BY-NC 4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Changes Made: No changes made.

  6. 12/27/2024

    The Art of Writing, Discipline vs Inspiration & Authentic African Stories| Chioniso Tsikisayi | EP10

    In this conversation, award winning writer—Chioniso Tsikisayi shares her journey as a poet, writer, and filmmaker, discussing her creative process, the importance of visibility in the arts, and her personal definition of success. She reflects on her unconventional path, the significance of relationships in her work, and the balance between being visible and nurturing her craft. Chioniso emphasizes the necessity of writing as a form of expression and the patience required in the creative process. We discuss her writing philosophy, discipline over mere inspiration, the balance between routine and spontaneity, her intentional approach to consuming African literature and how personal experiences shape her narratives. She also reflects on the diaspora and home, sharing her literary influences and inspirations. Tsikisayi also emphasizes the life lessons writing can teach, including the significance of authenticity and self-acceptance. ------------------------------------------------------------------- 📱Follow Chioniso: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chichi_celest Twitter: https://x.com/chichicelest 📲 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepenandpulsepod Twitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlope TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepenandpulsepod 🔗 Check out my website: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share and Turn on Notifications!: https://www.youtube.com/@UCznNtAguf40a4UMSWUklkJw or leave a nice comment, or just say hie. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:40 The Creative Journey and Opportunities 06:58 Defining Successes and Personal Goals 09:56 Navigating the Creative Landscape 12:46 Traditional Education and the Arts 15:51 Writing as a Necessity 22:00 Inspiration vs Discipline in writing 40:00 The Interconnectedness of Writing, Poetry, and Film. 45:00 Intentional Consumption of African Literature 49:00 Influences and Inspirations in Writing 53:00 Non-fiction and Self-help books 58:00 Life Lessons Through Writing -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music Attribution: Track Title: Kid Kodi Artist: Blue Dot Sessions Source: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Skittle/Kid_Kodi/ License: Creative Commons CC BY-NC 4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Changes Made: No changes made.

  7. 12/20/2024

    From Zimbabwe to Silicon Valley, Google Engineering , Y Combinator & Building Ocular AI |EP09

    In this episode of #ThePenAndPulsePod I dive deep into the story of Louis Murerwa: Zimbabwean-born ex-Google engineer and, now co-founder and CTO of Ocular AI, a Y Combinator-backed startup. Learn about Louis' journey from growing up in Gweru all the way to Dartmouth College, his experience at Google, and his transition into the world of entrepreneurship. We also explore the challenges and opportunities in the African Tech Startup ecosystem, personal philosophies on life, favorite books, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 📲 Stay Connected! 🔗 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepenandpulsepod Twitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlope TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepenandpulsepod 🔗 Check out my website: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share and Turn on Notifications!: https://www.youtube.com/@UCznNtAguf40a4UMSWUklkJw or leave a nice comment, or just say hie. 📚 Mentioned Books: "The Almanack of Naval Ravikant" by Eric Jorgenson "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell 00:00 Intro & Background 06:32 Journey to the US 14:21 Discovering Computer Science 23:45 Path to Google Engineering 30:00 Overcoming Intimidation in Big Tech 36:00 Tech Environment Social Dynamics 42:00 The Y Combinator Experience 47:32 Building Ocular AI 53:03 Startup Funding and Y Combinator Process 01:00:05 : Product Launch 01:03:21 African Startup Market 01:08:00 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 01:10:53 Books to Die With -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music Attribution: Track Title: Kid Kodi Artist: Blue Dot Sessions Source: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Skittle/Kid_Kodi/ License: Creative Commons CC BY-NC 4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Changes Made: No changes made.

  8. 12/13/2024

    On The Dangers of Ideology, Love over Money, Nietzsche, Orwell & Happiness with Dumo Dhlamini |EP08

    In this episode, my guest is Dumo Dhlamini, an old friend. We shared high school and college corridors and, together we were fond of Debate and Intellectual discourse, on just about everything. We dive into a conversation that touches on life, philosophy, politics, and the socio-economic challenges facing Zimbabwe and the African diaspora. From the debate over whether financial security is necessary to settle down, to the dangers of ideology and the influence of political discourse, we explore various ideas that impact youth today. We also discuss the complex reality of living in Zimbabwe, balancing personal dreams with economic hardship, and how young people navigate the pursuit of success while being faced with systemic obstacles. This is an intellectual exchange that seeks to encourage deeper thinking about the world and how we can contribute to shaping the future, especially for Africans both at home and abroad. 00:00 Intro 01:32 Revisiting Intellectual Discourse 04:37 The Allure of the Diaspora 08:22 The philosophy of Satisfaction at home and abroad 16:43 The pressure to Settle Down 21:05 Disconnect of Ideologies and reality 25:01 The Dangers of Ideology 27:55 Mental Hygiene and Awareness 30:07 Influence of Literature 33:10 Relationships, Personal Worth and Money 36:23 Contextualizing Financial Advice in Africa 46:05 On Financial Freedom, Ambition and Happiness 52:18 The philosophy of Parenthood 55:45 On Political Conversations & Politics in Zimbabwe 01:10:58 Political Awareness & Self-Care ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 📲 Stay Connected! 🔗 Follow us on social media: Instagram:   / thepenandpulsepod   Twitter: https://x.com/phiwemhlope TikTok:   / thepenandpulsepod   🔗 Check out my website: https://www.mhlopephiwe.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to Subscribe!:    / @thepenandpulsepod   If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. Also, if you’re interested in more content like this, please leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts!

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About

Amplifying young African voices at home and in the diaspora thus, adding to the global discourse of making home a better place. On each episode, I deep dive into conversations with authors, influencers, writers, entertainers and thought leaders, social and political commentators, and friends. We talk about literature, writing, politics, technology and maybe a general philosophy of life. New Episode every other Friday. Subscribe to my Newsletter for more in-depth perspectives.

Information

  • Creator
    Phiwe Mhlope
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Phiwe Mhlope
  • Show Website
    The Pen and Pulse Podcast