Culture & Curves is our generation’s cultural archive, a space where Africans and the diaspora come together to reflect, unlearn, question, and document the realities we’re living today. We uncover erased and forgotten histories, explore African identity, and preserve the stories, struggles, and transformations that shape who we are and who we’re becoming.
Expect deep dives, bold perspectives, and the kind of cultural conversations that make you laugh, reflect, and rethink what you thought you knew about being African today.
Topics we explore:
African culture & identity
Diaspora experiences
Who Were We Before They Interrupted Us? | Simie Nkala
Before colonialism rewrote our story, who were we?
In this episode of Culture & Curves, I sit down with Simie Nkala, author of Dear Black Child… it is okay… and The Dancing Mountains, poet, and cultural guardian, for one of the deepest conversations we have ever had on this platform.
📖 GET SIMIE NKALA'S BOOKS:The Dancing MountainsAmazon UK — https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dancing-Mountains-Simie-Nkala/dp/1916696775
Dear Black Child… it is okay…Amazon UK — https://amzn.eu/d/0e8K2VK1
6 Jun 2026
Why Does Success Never Feel Like Enough? African Family Pressure, Shame & Expectations
Why does success never feel like enough?
In this episode of Culture & Curves, we explore the pressure many Africans feel to succeed, represent their family well, and avoid failure at all costs.
We talk about family expectations, shame, guilt, diaspora pressure, and the emotional weight that comes with being seen as someone who has to “make it.”
Because for many of us, success is not just personal.
It can feel like family responsibility, community pressure, and proof that the sacrifices were worth it.
This conversation is not about attacking our culture.
It is about understanding the pressure we carry, the expectations we inherit, and whether we can redefine success in a way that allows us to be human too.
Follow us on socials:
Instagram: @cultureandcurvespod
TikTok: @cultureandcurvespod
🎙️ Hosted by Chisomo
🎙️ Featuring Mulenga
#CultureAndCurves #AfricanPodcast #AfricanDiaspora #AfricanCulture #SuccessPressure #FamilyExpectations #AfricanIdentity
9 May 2026
ISINTU: What Does It Mean To Be Ndebele Today?
Siseyibo Yini AmaNdebele Lamuhla?
In this deeply reflective episode, I sit down with Ubaba Ubhalule from iSintu saMahlabezulu for an honest conversation about identity, culture, language, masculinity, tradition, and what it truly means to be Ndebele in today’s world.
This is more than a conversation about culture. It is a conversation about who we are becoming.
Together, we explore:- The meaning of Isintu- The role of language in preserving identity- The Ndebele experience in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the diaspora- Cultural leadership and preservation- The uncomfortable truths around modern identity- Whether we are still truly living Isintu today
This episode is reflective, honest, and rooted in dialogue across generations.
“Isintu isn’t something we talk about… It’s something we live.”
27 Apr 2026
Africa Is Growing... But Who Is It Growing For?
Everyone keeps saying Africa is booming, pointing to new skyscrapers, highways, and rising GDP. But who is this growth actually for? In my first solo podcast episode, we expose the "Africa Rising" illusion. We discuss why visible development is often a mirage hiding massive wealth inequality, and why everyday people
Real growth isn't just about GDP; it's about access to clean water, education, and medicine for everyone.
Is the "Africa Rising" narrative real, or is it just benefiting the top 1%? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
7 Mar 2026
God, Church & The Questions We Don’t Ask | Pastor Derick Maphosa
In this episode of Culture & Curves, we sit down with Pastor Derick Maphosa for an honest conversation about faith, the church, and the questions many people are afraid to ask.
We explore the differences between believing in God and trusting religious institutions, why so many young people struggle with the church today, and how culture shapes our understanding of faith.
This episode delves into challenging yet necessary conversations about belief, doubt, tradition, and the future of the church.
If you’ve ever wrestled with faith, questioned the church, or tried to reconcile spirituality with modern life, this conversation is for you.
🎙 Topics we discuss:
• Believing in God vs. believing in the church
• Why are many young people leaving the church
• Faith, doubt, and honest questions
• The role of culture in Christianity
• Navigating spirituality in the modern world
🎵 Listen to Pastor Derick Maphosa’s Music:
https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCcjxi1V3UyWfa5tsK1a20wA?si=2oKr8arLVWn-T1rX
⛪ CDPM Community ChurchAddress:
31a Girton St, Salford M7 1UR
7 Feb 2026
Africa Is Entertaining: AFCON & The iShowSpeed Effect #10
In this episode of Culture & Curves, we explore how Africa goes viral through moments of joy, sport, and internet culture. From the energy of AFCON to the global attention around iShowSpeed’s Africa tour, we ask a deeper question: why does Africa seem to trend only when it’s entertaining?
We unpack the difference between visibility and respect, and what viral moments reveal about how the world sees African culture.
🎙️ Hosted by Chisomo and Mulenga
🌍 African culture • identity • global conversations.
What moment from AFCON or iShowSpeed stood out to you?
31 Jan 2026
What Happened in Africa in 2025: The Year Africa Stepped Forward #09
What happened in Africa in 2025?Now that we’re in 2026, this episode reflects on a year where Africa stepped forward politically, economically, and culturally, often without the recognition it deserved.From global leadership moments to growing influence and confidence, we explore how Africa moved closer to the centre of global conversations and why these wins are rarely highlighted.This episode of Culture & Curves documents progress, power, and perspective — not ignoring challenges, but refusing to let Africa’s growth be overlooked.🎙️ Hosted by Chisomo and Mulenga🌍 African culture • identity • global influenceWhen you think about Africa in 2025, what stands out to you?
(00:00) Introduction
(02:33) What major global moments happened in Africa in 2025?
(04:25) Why do we often hesitate to celebrate Africa’s wins?
(07:34) How does it feel to see Africa leading global conversations?
(13:41) Does representation change how Africa is treated globally?
(20:29) Are we becoming more politically confident as a continent?
(22:08) What exactly is BRICS and how does it work?
(28:56) What would true economic freedom change for Africa?
(31:49) What makes you believe Africa will be the center of civilization?
(35:50) What happens when Africa finally speaks with one voice?
(40:55) What are you most looking forward to in 2026?
#africa #2025 #progress #geopolitics #podcast #podcastclips
6 Dec 2025
Mental Health in African Households | Ep 8
We sit down to confront the severe cultural stigma that keeps so many—especially men—suffering in silence. We tackle the toxic belief that mental illness is a "white people thing," witchcraft, or simply a sign of weakness. This is our shared experience, and it's time to talk about it.🔥 Why You Need to Watch This:The Gender Trap: Why African men are taught to be "strong" and how this leads to mismanaging anxiety, depression, and grief.Generational Divide: The heartbreaking moments when children try to open up to parents who only respond with "pray it away" or "go to sleep."Finding a Path: Our personal stories about seeking therapy and building safe spaces, even when family and friends are unsupportive.The Call to Action: Concrete steps we must take as parents, communities, and religious leaders to prioritise mental wellness now.
talk about it.
15 Nov 2025
The New Global South: Africa’s Voice in a Changing World | Ep 7
Africa is undergoing significant shifts in its political, economic, and cultural landscape. In today’s episode of Culture & Curves, we dive into “The New Global South: Africa’s Voice in a Changing World.” We break down how Africa is rising through: 🌍 Youth innovation & digital power 🇨🇳 China’s Belt & Road influence 🇷🇺 Russia’s fast but risky partnerships 💼 Economic rebalancing & resource control 🌐 A global shift from “aid recipient” to strategic partner We also discuss African leaders shaping this new era, including Ibrahim Traoré and Aliko Dangote, and ask the big question: Is this Africa’s century, or are we repeating history with new players? 🌍 Follow Culture & Curves: Instagram — @cultureandcurvespod TikTok — @cultureandcurvespod Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts — Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz 📲 Connect with Mulenga: TikTok — @wordsbymul Instagram — @wordsbymul Website — wordsbymul.com (http://wordsbymul.com) #CultureAndCurves (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/cultureandcurves) #BeyondBorders (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/beyondborders) #AfricanIdentity (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/africanidentity) #DiasporaVoices (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/diasporavoices) #BlackHistoryMonth (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/blackhistorymonth) #Podcast (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/podcast)
25 Oct 2025
Beyond Borders: What it means to be African today? | Ep 6
In this episode of Culture & Curves, Chisomo and Mulenga explore what it truly means to be African today, beyond geography, nationality, or accent.
From growing up between worlds to rediscovering identity through culture and community, this conversation dives deep into belonging, heritage, and the pride that connects Africans everywhere.
Together, we explore how history, migration, and modernity have shaped what it means to identify as African in 2025 and why that definition continues to evolve.
🧠 In this episode:
Growing up African in the UK
The evolution of Black History Month
The modern African identity — culture, pride & perception
Reclaiming connection in a world that’s constantly shifting
🎙️ Being African isn’t just where you’re from — it’s what lives within you.
🌍 Follow Culture & Curves:
Instagram — @cultureandcurvespod (https://www.instagram.com/cultureandcurvespod)
TikTok — @cultureandcurvespod
Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts — Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz
📲 Connect with Mulenga:
TikTok — @wordsbymul
Instagram — @words.yeth (https://www.instagram.com/words.yeth)
Website — wordsbymul.com (http://wordsbymul.com)
13 Oct 2025
Unite the Kingdom Rally, Charlie Kirk & Death in Dubai | Episode 5 Part 2
This week on Culture & Curves, we unpack a whirlwind of headlines shaking faith, power, and perception. From the Unite the Kingdom Rally and its call for unity, to the shocking news of Charlie Kirk’s death, and the resurfacing of disturbing stories behind #PortaPotty Dubai, we ask the deeper questions others avoid. What do these moments reveal about the world we’ve built — and the values we claim to stand on?
27 Sept 2025
Sudan & Gaza: The Wars the World Can’t Ignore | Episode 5 Part 1
🌍 In this episode of Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz, we share our raw thoughts on the ongoing wars in Sudan and Gaza. 🔴 This is not a news report — it’s our perspective. We talk openly about what’s happening, how it feels to watch these crises unfold, and why these conflicts hit different for us as Africans and as part of the global community. ✨ What we cover in this episode: The devastating reality of the war in Sudan, the ongoing violence in Gaza and its human cost, our honest reactions, questions, and reflections. Why can’t these conflicts be ignored? 💬 Expect unfiltered conversation — not polished headlines. Just two voices trying to make sense of what’s happening in the world. 👉 If you value real conversations about culture, identity, and global issues, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe. #Sudan #Gaza #War #Africa #CultureAndCurves #Podcast
24 Aug 2025
From Jozi to Cape Town: Beauty, Nightlife & the Realities | Ep 4
In Episode 4 of Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz, we bring you a special travel edition straight from our experiences in South Africa. AK just got back from Cape Town and shares everything — the beauty, the vibe, and the hidden dangers that come with it. Meanwhile, Drizz takes us back to his trip to Johannesburg in early 2025, giving his perspective on Jozi’s energy, culture, and chaos. This is not your typical travel vlog — it’s a raw, unfiltered African take on two of the continent’s most iconic cities #Podcast #CultureShock #DiasporaTalk #CultureAndCurves #AKandDrizz #africanpodcasts #diaspora #Jozi #capetown #joburg
20 Jul 2025
Respect, Resistance & Real Life: What They Don’t Prepare Us For | Ep 3
In this bold and reflective episode of Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz, we ask: What does respect really mean — and who gets to define it? From challenging the unspoken power of African elders to questioning our obsession with overworking and glorifying struggle, this episode is a call to relearn what we were never taught. 📱 Follow us: IG: / cultureandcurvespod TikTok: / cultureandcurvespod Spotify/Apple: Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz
13 Jul 2025
What Happened to Us? Alcohol, Culture & African Identity | Ep 2
In this second episode of Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz, we dive deep into the question: What really happened to African culture? From sacred traditions to colonisation, from communal pride to cultural confusion — we explore how alcohol, religion, and the pursuit of modernity have reshaped African identity across generations. 📱 Follow us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/cultureandcurvespod/ (https://www.instagram.com/cultureandcurvespod/) TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cultureandcurvespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@cultureandcurvespod)
12 Jul 2025
Who Are We Really? Culture Shock, Moving Abroad & Real Talk | Ep 1
Welcome To Our First episode of Culture & Curves With AK & Drizz — Your New Favourite Podcast Where Real Talk Meets The Real World. 📱 Follow us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/cultureandcurvespod/ (https://www.instagram.com/cultureandcurvespod/) TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cultureandcurvespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@cultureandcurvespod) Spotify/Apple: Culture & Curves with AK & Drizz Time Stamps 0:00 Coming Up 0:26 - Intro 02:28 - Who We Are 04:52 - Why Are We Doing This Podcast 11:01 - Why Culture&Curves 12:00 - This They Don't Tell You Moving To The UK 27:44 - Are We Losing Our Culture Or Evolving? 46:19 - Do People Still Care About The World Anymore? 55:29 - How Would We Run The World? 58:00 - Outro #Podcast #CultureShock #DiasporaTalk #CultureAndCurves #AKandDrizz #AfricanPodcast
Contact Culture&Curves
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Culture&Curves?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
