Ep 36: Johannes Radebe

This week’s episode has it all: from tears to laughter as I am joined by the King of Joy and Strictly Come Dancing pro, Johannes Radebe. Born in the township Zamdela Sasolburg, South Africa, Johannes started dancing when he was 7, after discovering a love for sequins - who can blame him?! Johannes hit the big time on the dance floor after appearing on the debut season of South Africa’s Dancing with The Stars. From there, he headed to the UK in 2018 to feature in the pro line up for Strictly Come Dancing, and became a true game changer. After VOGUEING in heels, Johannes danced the first same-sex dance routine with fellow pro Graziano Di Prima and whilst some haters called Ofcom, it paved the way for the first all-male partnership in the show’s 19 year history, with baker, John Whaite. The pair not only came second but they won fans across the country and started important conversations in the process. Now as he is preparing for his first solo show, Johannes Radebe: Freedom, which will open on 16 March and run through to 1 May 2022 across the UK. It promises to be a celebration of music and dance, from African fusion to fiery Latin, classic dance arrangements and huge party anthems. So get your tickets NOW: https://www.johannes-live.com/I was obsessed with Johannes and John’s partnership on the most recent season of Strictly Come Dancing but get ready to fall a bit more in love with Johannes after listening to this episode as he opens up about how therapeutic the partnership was. He also talks about the tragic circumstances that led to him being honest about his sexuality with his mother, just a few years ago. Johannes is a true symbol of living truthfully as you - in spite of hate growing up and judgment even today - so I hope, like me, this chat inspires you to be more comfortable in your own skin. I hope you continue to listen and find the power to Reign in your own lives, too. And if you love this episode, please get in touch (follow me across social media @joshsmithhosts), I love hearing from you. Love, Josh xxx Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices