listen to 5 Early Mornings
5 Early Mornings
5 Early Mornings is the early, interactive wake-up up call for the #earlyriser – getting you up to speed and ahead of the curve while the sleepers are still snoozing away, playing you top tunes to set the tone for your day.
What's The Level: Should We Have More Young People In Positions of Power?
A 20-year-old has just been voted Deputy Mayor-elect of Hackney in London — and it’s sparked a massive conversation about age, leadership, and whether young people are finally done waiting to be “the future.” In Part 1 of this discussion, Big Chief Tshepi breaks down why this moment matters far beyond the UK, why politics feels disconnected from young people, and what changes when somebody who actually understands youth struggles steps into power.
What's The Level: There's Something Special in the Townships
The city may have all the shine, the glitz and the high rise buildings. But there is a charm that being home, be it the townships or the village, that the city could never replicate. Big Chief Tshepi looks at these magical things that make Kasi pop.
What's The Level: "I'm Not Resigning" - Unpacking Cupcake's Briefing
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he’s not resigning — and South Africa is once again pulled into the Phala Phala storm. Today on What’s The Level, Big Chief Tshepi unpacks the President’s latest address to the nation, why he’s taking the parliamentary report on review, how we got back here, and what could happen next. From impeachment talk to public trust, this is the political story dominating the country right now.
What's The Level: The Final Boss of Cool Jobs!
FOX Sports is offering one football fan the ultimate dream job ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup: $50,000 to watch every single match. The role, titled “Chief World Cup Watcher,” will see one selected fan sit through all 104 games across 39 days while reacting online and creating content around the tournament, and Big Chief Tshepi is strongly considering applying.
What's The Level: Oos Wes, Tuis Bes
There's no place like home, and all the tidbits that make home home are what you end up missing dearly. A listener tuning in from Germany opens up about homesickness — and it sparks a bigger conversation about what it really means when “missing home” stops being simple nostalgia and starts becoming something heavier.
What's The Level: They Robbed the Army?
Military-grade weapons. A breached SANDF base. And no confirmed recovery. In this episode of What’s The Level, Big Chief Tshepi breaks down the reported theft of assault rifles, ammunition, and a grenade launcher from the Tek Base facility inside the Thaba Tshwane military complex in Pretoria — including growing concerns around security failures, repeated breaches, and what it means when weapons leave a controlled military environment and remain unaccounted for. The facts are serious. The questions are even bigger.
What's The Level: How is the Government Spending Your Zak?
South Africa is spending around R800 million a year paying suspended government officials — some of whom have been sitting at home on full salary for years. Big Chief asks the bigger question: when did delays, endless investigations, and zero consequences become normal? From officials earning millions while suspended to systems that never seem to move, this week’s What’s The Level dives into the culture of accountability, wasted money, and the standards we’ve quietly accepted.
What's The Level: Powerhouse Creators, Where's the Line?
Streamers are no longer just online — they’re filling stadiums, raising millions, and in some cases… landing in serious trouble. We unpack the rise of creators like IShowSpeed and the Sidemen, and the more notorious like Johnny Somali, and ask the real question: What’s the level of influence when there are no clear rules?
What’s The Level: The Smoke-Free Generation (Part 1)
The UK has passed a law that means anyone born after 2009 will never legally be allowed to buy cigarettes — not now, not ever. We asked the question: Is this a genius public health move… or government overreach? From protecting future generations to fears of control and black markets — the reactions were split. So… what’s the level? Are we finally ending smoking… or opening the door to something bigger?
What’s The Level - AI & Law Enforcement? No Thanks! 🤖⚖️
Artificial Intelligence is stepping into the courtroom—but is the law ready? After multiple wrongful arrests linked to facial recognition, we unpack the legal chaos behind the tech. Who’s accountable when AI gets it wrong? And in South Africa, do laws like the POPI Act and the Constitution actually protect you? This isn’t just about innovation—it’s about your rights. Is AI making justice smarter… or more dangerous?
What’s The Level: Rewriting South Africa’s History
South Africa is reconsidering how its story is taught. The Department of Basic Education has proposed a revamped history curriculum aimed at decolonising education and reshaping national identity. Supporters call it long overdue, while critics warn against ideological bias. In this thought-provoking episode, Big Chief Tshepi breaks down both sides and shares a personal perspective shaped by years of studying history.
What's The Level - Labour Laws in The Gig Economy
Is gig work freedom—or exploitation with a sleek interface? South Africa is moving to overhaul its labour laws, potentially extending basic protections like minimum wage, leave, and safety standards to app-based workers. For thousands of young people earning through ride-hailing, delivery, and online platforms, this could redefine what it means to hustle in the digital age. But with greater rights could come trade-offs—reduced flexibility, higher costs, and pushback from tech companies. So where should the line be drawn between independence and protection? The Big Chief explores this.
What's The Level? - Mama Joy Has Her World Cup Wings Clipped!
Should super fans be funded to support the nation on the world stage? South Africa is divided after iconic supporter Mama Joy Chauke appealed for assistance to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup—sparking a fiery response from Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie. With even FIFA President Gianni Infantino drawn into the conversation, the debate has ignited questions around patriotism, privilege, and public funding. Is this a case of honouring icons—or entitlement crossing the line?
What’s The Level: Can You Have a World Cup Without the World?
The beautiful game belongs to the fans — but what happens when they can’t show up? In this thought-provoking episode, we unpack concerns around travel and attendance restrictions ahead of the FIFA World Cup, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. From electric atmospheres to cultural exchange, we explore why the World Cup is driven by fans — and whether limiting them could dilute the magic of football’s biggest spectacle. Today, Big Chief Tshepi asks: Is it still a World Cup if the world can’t fully be there?
What's The Level - Big Chief, PICK UP THE PHONE!
The Big Chief is a relatively problem-free guy, with no major red flags... Well, maybe just the one - He NEVER answers his phone. His family hates it, his friends hate it, and now his Boss is annoyed with his phone constantly being on Do Not Disturb! His excuse? "I do it because the phone ringing makes me anxious." He's reached out to the nation to try and help him build his case for DND Warriors everywhere!
What's The Level - Should We Keep Politics Out Of Music?
Glastonbury is one of the world's most popular music festivals, and this year's edition saw some controversial performances that left many calling for politics to be kept out of music, setting many tongues wagging. Today on What's The Level, Big Chief Tshepi looks at these performances, the statements made thereafter, and finds out from Mzansi whether they feel politics has a part in music.
What's The Level - Barbara Moagi
During Youth Month, The Big Chief touched base with the coolest youngsters in South Africa. This week, he chatted to Barbara Moagi, an incredible trailblazer at her age, being a broadcaster, digital marketing graduate, influencer extraordinaire, and a former Miss SA finalist. In this chat, they speak about her creative pursuits, her busy life, and her podcast, Boldly Becoming, through which she empowers many other young people.
What's The Level - Stupid Things for Love
Love is a great thing, there are LISTS of albums that prove that. But sometimes, we do really stupid things because we're blinded by heart eyes. This morning, Big Chief Tshepi looks at some of these pretty stupid things we've all done in the name of love!
Self-Care with Miss Dhanusha: Tradition Vs Modern Self-Care
This week, Miss Dhanusha returns to continue the conversation on mental health and wellbeing. Monique and Dhanusha dive into the pressing issue of prioritizing self-care when societal expectations and roles weigh heavily on us, particularly women. They explore the tension between honoring tradition and filling your own cup first. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on breaking free from guilt and obligations to prioritize your own wellbeing, without losing sight of your values and heritage.
Self-Care with Miss Dhanusha: Dopamine Menu
This week on 5 Early Mornigns, Monique is joined by special guest Miss Dhanusha Dhoorgalu (@miss_dhanusha), a holistic self-care and wellness coach. Together, they dive into the dopamine menu trend that's been buzzing on social media and explore ways to prioritize your mental health by boosting dopamine levels beyond just likes and comments. Tune in for a conversation on self-care, mindfulness, and cultivating joy in a world where social media often dictates our mood.
Save video to ...
