Confession: Secrets, scandals and second chances with Stacey and J Sbu

Loading player...
Today on Confessions with Stacey and J Sbu, listeners were taken on an emotional journey through the story of a graduate who has been unemployed for five years. The reason, however, is not what the parents believe. While they attribute the ongoing job search to a difficult market, the real cause is a secret that has weighed heavily on their child’s conscience.
The confession, read aloud by J Sbu, reveals that during varsity, the confessor was arrested for drinking and driving. A night in jail was followed by a late uncle’s intervention, who paid the fine and promised to keep the incident from the confessor’s parents. Since then, every job application has been hindered by a criminal record, leaving the graduate at home, unable to explain the true reason for their struggle.
Stacey and J Sbu open the floor to listeners. Some callers suggest that the confessor should investigate whether the record can be expunged, while others, particularly parents, express the pain of being kept in the dark. The emotional toll of maintaining such a secret is discussed, with many agreeing that the burden of the lie can be worse than the original mistake.
Legal perspectives are shared, noting that expungement is not automatic and can take up to ten years, requiring legal assistance and transparency.
25 Sep 2025 English South Africa Society & Culture · Personal Journals

Other recent episodes

The Great Drive Debate: Is littering laziness or disrespect?

Is littering simply a bad habit, or does it show a lack of respect for others and the environment? Stacey and J Sbu unpack South Africa's growing litter problem and hear what listeners have to say in this thought-provoking edition of The Great Drive Debate.
22 Jul 13 min

A couple finally got married after 64 years together

A couple in Kenya has captured hearts after finally tying the knot following 64 years together. Stacey and J Sbu unpack this remarkable love story and the timeless reminder that there's no deadline for love, commitment, or saying "I do."
21 Jul 3 min

AARTO explained: What South Africa's new traffic fine system means for you

Confused about AARTO? You're not alone. Stacey and J Sbu speak to Road Traffic Infringement Agency spokesperson Monde Mkalipi, who breaks down exactly how the AARTO rollout works, what happens when you receive a traffic infringement notice, how long you have to respond, when the 50% discount applies, and what…
21 Jul 7 min

Who deserves your biggest thank you? Heartwarming stories of kindness

Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness leave the biggest impact. Stacey and J Sbu asked listeners to reflect on the people who've made a difference in their lives, from a security guard who offered hope during a difficult season to a cashier who quietly covered the last few rand at…
20 Jul 7 min

Do product recalls make you trust a brand more or less?

When a company recalls a product, does it make you trust the brand more for owning up to the mistake, or less because the product should never have made it to market? Stacey and J Sbu unpack this week's Great Drive Debate and hear what listeners had to say.
14 Jul 8 min