Shows
Joy Meets PainEpisode 19: Mummy’s friendships: What made them last?In this mother-daughter episode, Dr. Dorcas sits down with her mother Margaret to explore the beautiful, enduring friendships Margaret has had that have stood the test of time. From laughter-filled memories to quiet acts of loyalty, they unpack the values, habits, and unspoken rules that helped sustain these connections through decades of life’s ups and downs. Whether you're reflecting on your own friendships or curious about how lasting bonds are built, this episode offers insight, nostalgia, and timeless wisdom.2025-07-1626 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 18: Friendship in All SeasonsFriendships evolve—through seasons of joy, loss, transition, and growth. In this episode, we unpack how friendships shift over time, the difference between situational and soul-level connections, and how to keep meaningful relationships strong.2025-07-0238 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 17: What role do you play in your family?Have you ever wondered how you took on a specific role in your family? Were you the peacemaker, the comedian, the good child, the ignored child? Join Dr. Dorcas and cohost Taffy as they begin to break down some of these family roles.2025-06-1140 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 16_Love on the Back Burner? Not in This Kitchen! With Dr. Nicole What do simmering sauces and strong relationships have in common? Dr. Nicole says—everything! In this informative episode, we chat about why couples who cook together stay together. From kitchen communication skills to family recipes, Dr. Nicole shares why the stovetop might just be the new date spot. Grab your aprons and your partner—it’s time to spice things up in and out of the kitchen!2025-05-2831 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 15: A Post-Mother's Day Chat with My MotherIn this episode, I sit down with my mother for an intimate conversation about motherhood—what it has meant to her, how it has shaped her, and the lessons she’s gathered through the years. From the joys to the challenges, we explore her honest reflection. It’s a rare glimpse into her perspective and a meaningful reminder of the value of short yet meaningful conversations about intergenerational values.2025-05-1437 minJoy Meets PainEp. 14– Humanity, Humility, and a History of Lessons with Dr. Michelle PledgerEpisode SummaryIn this powerful episode, we welcome Dr.Michelle Pledger, an educator, speaker, and advocate whose work centers on culturally responsive living and teaching. Michelle shares how integrating mindfulness into daily life and classroom practice can deepen cultural awareness, foster genuine connections, and create spaces where all identities are honored. As the Founder of Living for Liberation and Director of Liberation at the High Tech High Graduate School of Education, Dr. Pledger shares what it means to truly center liberation in education. From disrupting systemic inequities to designing culturally responsive learning e...2025-04-3035 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 14: Humanity, Humility, and a History of Lessons with Dr. Michelle PledgerIn this powerful episode, we welcome Dr. Michelle Pledger, an educator, speaker, and advocate whose work centers on culturally responsive living and teaching. Michelle shares the importance of an holistic approach to education, while integrating mindfulness into daily life can deepen cultural awareness, foster genuine connections, and create spaces where all identities are honored.2025-04-3035 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 13 Joyful Family MomentsIn this heartwarming episode, Dr. Dorcas and cohost Taffy take a joyful stroll down memory lane as they share some of their most cherished family moments. From spontaneous laughter to traditions that shaped their childhoods, they reflect on the people, places, and experiences that brought them joy and connection. Join us for a feel-good conversation filled with love, laughter, and the beauty of family bonds—big and small.2025-04-1653 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 12: Why Do People Cheat in Relationships?Guest Host: Ms. Taffy, a health and fitness enthusiast currently based in Germany.Description:Secrets have a way of unraveling, and when infidelity is exposed within a family, the impact can be profound and far-reaching. In this episode, we dive into the emotional, psychological, and relational fallout of secret affairs—how they shape trust, redefine relationships, and leave lasting scars. Join us as we explore real stories, expert insights, and the complex dynamics that make family betrayal one of the most painful secrets to uncover.06:07: Why do people have affairs? ...2025-03-2640 min
Joy Meets PainEpisode 11: Behind Closed Doors: Unraveling Family Secrets with Co-host TaffyEvery family has its secrets—some whispered through generations, others buried so deep they threaten to stay hidden forever. In this episode, we explore the impact of family secrets on relationships, identity, and healing. From long-lost relatives to hidden pasts, we dive into the stories that shape us, the truths we fear, and the freedom that comes with breaking the silence. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on the power of honesty, reconciliation, and the courage to face the past.2025-03-1236 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 10: Who Did What, Said What in 2025’s Black History Month_A Dorcas PerspectiveIn honor of Black History Month, this episode of Joy Meets Pain shines a spotlight on remarkable Black individuals across the globe—leaders, innovators, and advocates whose words and actions have left a lasting impact. From groundbreaking entrepreneurs in Africa to athletes and activists using their platforms for change, I’m celebrating the people who inspire me and sharing their powerful stories. Join me as we honor their contributions, resilience, and influence.2025-02-2616 min
Joy Meets PainEpisode 9: Valentine’s, Galentine’s, or Palentine’s Day_ What do they have in common?In this episode, Dr. Matowe goes beyond the clichés to explore the deeper, more complex facets of love—self-love, friendship, family bonds, and the quiet, everyday acts that define true connection. How do we express love in ways that truly matter? Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, cherishing time alone, or questioning the meaning of it all, this conversation will leave you with a richer understanding of love in all its forms.2025-02-1217 minJoy Meets PainEpisode 8: Love without a Price Tag_ Bride Price and Dowry TraditionsIn Part 2 of Love Without a Price Tag, I continue my conversation with the Indian couple from episode 7 and invite my mother to share her insights on the tradition of bride price. You can actively participate by completing the one-question poll on YouTube.2025-01-2941 minJoy Meets PainLove Without a Price Tag: Redefining Indian Marriage TraditionsIn Part 1 of this 2 part episode, Dr. Dorcas Matowe is joined by an inspiring Indian couple who chose to redefine what marriage means by following their hearts over tradition.
Tune in to Part 2, Episode 8 as we explore how the couple broke the of tradition of the dowry system, which led to a stronger, more fulfilling relationship.
2025-01-1527 minJoy Meets Pain2024: The Highs, the Lows, the LessonsJoin me as I unpack standout moments of 2024—the triumphs that inspired, the challenges that tested, and the lessons to carry forward. From cultural shifts to personal breakthroughs, this episode reflects on a year that was anything but ordinary. Don’t miss my take on the year’s defining stories and what they mean for the future.2024-12-2719 minJoy Meets PainSavoring Change: A Chef’s Journey to a Life of FlavorWhether you're a foodie, a dreamer, or just looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode serves up a hearty helping of passion, resilience, and the transformative power of following your heart.2024-12-1220 minJoy Meets PainBrotherly Love: Secrets to a Lasting Sibling BondIn this heartfelt episode, we explore the unique and enduring bond between two brothers who have uncovered the secret to a truly remarkable sibling relationship. Forget sibling rivalry—these two reveal the keys to supporting each other through life’s ups and downs, celebrating each other’s successes, and growing closer as friends. From the lessons they’ve learned to the strategies they use to strengthen their connection, this episode is filled with valuable insights on building and nurturing meaningful sibling relationships.
🎧 Tune in to hear their inspiring story of brotherly love and the powerful im...2024-11-1329 minJoy Meets PainWhen Cancer Calls: Turning Fear into PowerDr. Dorcas Matowe welcomes Shas Matowe, founder of Powerfull Inc., for an intimate conversation on the far-reaching impact of cancer.
Shas shares her personal journey, from her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2014 to her passing in 2017, exploring how this experience reshaped her life. Together, they discuss how movement serves as medicine, connecting us to our bodies and emotions in profound ways.
This inspiring discussion highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the need to integrate physical care into our emotional and mental well-being.
Join us for an episode filled with resilience, connection, and insights on the...2024-10-3031 minJoy Meets PainMy Birth Story: A Conversation with My MotherIn this debut episode, host Dorcas Matowe opens up about the importance of knowing your birth story. Joined by her mother, Margaret Matowe, they share intimate details of Dorcas' birth—revelations that only came to light a year ago. Together, they reflect on how these discoveries have shaped Dorcas' understanding of herself and her journey.
Do you know your story? What are you fighting for in life?
If you have a family story filled with joy or pain, reach out to us at info@joymeetspain.com. We’d love to hear from you.2024-10-1626 minJoy Meets PainJoy Meets Pain with Dr. Dorcas Matowe - Coming October 16thWelcome to the Joy Meets Pain podcast. I'm your host, Doctor Dorcas Matowe, a family therapist who has worked with children, couples, individuals, and families for decades.
I cannot tell you how many times I've heard people say my family is the worst, or I'm too embarrassed to talk about my family, or no family is like mine.
Well guess what, listeners? All families have 'ishness'. foolishness, happiness, shadiness, loneliness, forgiveness, hopefulness, goodness and the list goes on.
If you come from a family and are trying to navigate your family relationships, then...2024-10-0402 min