The Relebogile Mabotja Podcast #39 – Thabang Mashigo: I Got Threats After The Show

*The official recording date of this episode was 10 October 2025.*

In an interview that is as profound as it is revealing, renowned therapist and #MarriedAtFirstSight expert Thabang Mashigo joins me in the studio for a conversation that peels back every layer.

We journey through Thabang’s incredible past, uncovering her surprising career as a political scientist and diplomat working within the presidency. She explains the deeply personal reasons behind her "great pivot" from the world of politics to her true calling in psychology, and how her own family dynamics ignited a passion for building healthy family units for others.

Thabang opens up with incredible vulnerability about the grief that reshaped her life. She shares the story of losing her mother and grandmother on the exact same day during the pandemic and the harrowing trauma of discovering her best friend had been murdered. She explains how this profound pain became the ultimate catalyst, teaching her the difference between pain that breaks and pain that builds.

Thabang pulls back the curtain on her experience as an expert on #MarriedAtFirstSightMzansi. She addresses the intense viewer feedback, clarifies her "harsh" approach with the cast, and reveals the behind-the-scenes truths. She shares the unseen context of the participants' deep-seated traumas and the immense pressure of filming a reality show that deals with real human hearts.

Looking ahead, Thabang shares her powerful philosophy on healing. She discusses why she champions alternative therapy methods, from aromatherapy to ancient rituals, and explains the critical link between our unresolved emotions and our physical health.

She leaves us with her powerful mission: to heal together, one person at a time.

Experience all the twists, love, and lessons from Married at First Sight Mzansi. Watch the full current season and revisit Season 1 on Mzansi Magic Catch Up or Showmax.

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