Raised by Her Kidnapper for 17 Years: Zephany Nurse Story

[@wideawakepodcast]

Hey everyone, this episode has literally been years in the making. If you enjoyed it, let me know your thoughts in the comments and leave a like! 🙌🏼

[@charaplants1444]

Great work!

[@marisaveeb]

Josh, this episode is my favourite so far ❤ thank you!

[@heinrichjvr7620]

Well done. What a story! Can't imagine what Zephany and her parents must have gone through. I won't ever be able to forgive her kidnapper mom if I was in their shoes but respect to her for raising her right and without abuse.

[@CandicePierrot-gz4js]

Josh you legend! Smashed it again!

[@daria841]

This woman who abducted the baby, ruined a family. The child is obviously suffering from Stockholm syndrome 😢 I feel for the birth mother 😢

[@michellewhitneyprince1298]

You can tell she had good counselling sessions, she’s very self aware and very understanding of everyone’s perspective in this situation.

[@Mahlodi_Makobe]

She's so empathetic

[@jupitersworld244]

Or she jsit had a great family even though the circumstances

[@AmahleMvunyiswa-w2g]

She's so empathetic. It's impressive how she puts herself in everyone shoes. This must have been so heartbreaking,I hope everyone heals.

[@craigstewartStif69Myster]

Great work Josh! finally got to hear from her perspective and not the "media"

[@wideawakepodcast]

Really appreciate it! She tells her own story better than they ever could! 🙌🏻

[@LionelSmith-q2i]

Thanks Zephany, for sharing your story. I was abandoned as newborn at a train station in Hillcrest in 1993 and grew up in the Salvation Army Children's Home in Pietermaritzburg . God always has a plan for our lives, and hope I can someday meet any of my biological family. Many Blessings to you aswell Josh for such amazing Podcasts.

[@chironbosman3841]

I pray you find them

[@SL-sh2mf]

That’s a bit different than being kidnapped

[@emmacobb8232]

Have you done a dna ancestry you never know you may get a match xx

[@LionelSmith-q2i]

@SL-sh2mf indeed, left this comment cause of the power of social media, still Zephany's story is one that many orphans truly appreciate being shared.

[@georginacalder6798]

That's amazing. My family used to donate often to the pmb salvation army. I remember as a kid always going there and wanting to play with the kids. Maybe you were there, who knows! I hope you are living your best life, happy and healthy❤

[@MichelleMocke]

As someone who grew up knowing this story, I never understood why she decided not to go with her biological family immediately, but I completely understand now that the compassion towards the family that raised her and loyalty really was a factor. She is truly a shining example of God turning things around for good in the end. Thank you Josh for allowing her to tell her side of the story. Thank you Miché for being brave enough to find your voice and let God do the work in and through you. Your light shines bright.. Jeremiah 29 🙌

[@Kakwasi]

The kidnapper raised her well and loved her. She couldn't just switch love immediately

[@leecole4176]

This was one of the best podcasts I’ve ever watched, really raw and emotional!! I think we now need a podcast with the biological parents so we as the viewers can also hear their POV.

[@kimgreen4043]

I swear this is my favourite episode. So beautiful. One thing I can take away from this is how God can use one person to bring about change to the world. Zephany, may the Almighty's light and favour forever reign over your life.

[@marial.m.hatutale2892]

H

[@MinckeAfrika]

Thank u Lord for restoration of Zephanys life yes only God knows why Levona do not speak out and face reality God is the way the truth and life the truth wil set her free and every one in this case shall indeed be free God bless you Zephany you are an Angel from heaven to this world Strong's Be bless and God bless 🎉 Hallelujah Amen 😢

[@zintlentongana4913]

The lady who kidnapped her definitely did not work alone

[@AakifahAbrahamsW]

Beautiful video. I remember her story all over the news in 2015 and so glad we finally get to hear her version all these years later. So glad to see that you’re okay Zephany you’re so well articulated and selfless despite the rollercoaster of a journey you’ve been through.

[@KaylinMuller99]

I’ve read about this in newspapers, heard about it on the news and recently watched the documentary, but nothing tops this. I really appreciated hearing her story from her. It’s so nice how you give people this platform to be heard (and technically be seen too). Keep doing what you’re doing ❤

[@TayNorman-q1o]

I remember growing up following up on this story, I'm 23 now & really glad we got to hear her side of the story. She really tells her story so beautifully!

[@i.t.starters2019]

This is my first time hearing about this. This story is painful but at the same time beautiful to see how beautiful her upbringing was being raised by her abductor. I was busting in tears through out this interview. It’s the kind of tale that breaks your heart and yet makes you feel something profound at the same time. It’s like a sad song that you can’t help but love. I think the mother that raised her is not a bad person by the way that she describe her, but she was very desparate because of the miscarriages and end up making a bad choice by kidnapping a child. At the same time she was very selfish for not even think of how the biological parents would live after what she did. Who is the best person to cover the story other than Josh, this guy deserves an Award

[@YolandaDebeer-f2o]

I can still remember how yoir grandma and grandpa/ Pastor Nurse. They didnt give up. They never stopped praying. I can remember how your Ma Nurse spoke about you. I was in tears when i found put about yoi Zephaney. I can remember the times when Celeste and Morne went through at that time. We live aroind the corner.

[@annaleneoosthuizen]

Incredible difficult position for a 17 year old. Her life was torn apart at a sensitive age. There is good in everyone.

[@TimothyAdams-cz9jw]

Josh you are now a master interviewer and your experience with interviewing people with very strong dramatic and sensitive stories shows well done boet.

[@mashudumunyai931]

I’m happy to hear her refer to her biological mother as “my mother” cos when I watched her documentary on Showmax she didn’t want to acknowledge her biological mom and chose her other family. It broke my heart but I’m thrilled to hear her refer to them as “my mom and dad”.

[@thandekamlala2370]

Yes. It’s good to hear her calling her “my mom.” She initially didn’t want to acknowledge her biological parents as mum and dad.

[@Kakwasi]

Not easy those who stole her and loved

[@RubaJust]

I feel so sorry for the biological mother, I feel like no one understands her side of this tragedy. That she's still grieving the loss of her daughter worse now though she's alive. No amount of jail time for the mother that kidnapped her daughter will ever close that would. May the God of justice comfort her and all affected.

[@luchaewilliams1399]

When you started ministering at the end ... wow, it was so powerful. Praise God for turning your ashes into beauty and well done for being obediant to follow His prompting! You are going to touch so many broken women.

[@Lithalam_T]

Great Work Josh! This was a brilliant interview,. Youre playing a huge role in facilitating and documenting real South African stories and history. Keep u the good work chief!!👊💯

[@basetsanachaphatso9580]

I'm so happy to have heard what transpired from Zephany's perspective. Based on previous articles and after listening to her tell her story it gives me context as to why she acted the way she did. You're amazing Zephany and your kindness is is heartwarming. Shout-out to the podcast for this episode 👏🏾.

[@Honest_Opinion_Truly]

She's strong! I would never see my parents the same again after finding out that they kidnapped me🥺😢🙆🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️ Taking someone else's child is diabolical, she didnt have to go through this.

[@candipill]

what an amazing, resilient, brave and articulate woman - I have so much respect and admiration for you.

[@MegaYvette2010]

Wow, what a powerful testimony and wonderful interview. God Bless Zephany!

[@ColouredXzaza]

Shout out to Pick 'n Pay for the cakes you've provided to the family annually. That's sweet of you.

[@bronwynpearce7266]

What a beautiful testimony! No matter what you go through in life, there is always hope and restoration.

[@m_natasha]

Powerful testimony

[@ladychen__21]

I can't stop watching this . Growing up I used to read about this . Its refreshing hearing her side of the story

[@kaylajacobs1041]

This was really amazing to watch. I was also in high school when this story broke out and I remember how it just blew up in the news and it’s something that just kind of stuck with me over the years. I loved watching the documentary and getting the full picture of what actually went down, but it was very refreshing to just listen to her speak about how she experienced everything and how it affected her. You did a great job Josh! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@kiwifruitneo]

What is the name of the documentary?

[@Arti-iChi]

I remember this story on the news growing up...truly heartbreaking. The emotions she must have felt discovering her true identity and the confusion that came with it are unimaginable. What makes this even more complex is that she had a safe and loving relationship with the woman who abducted her, which must have added an entirely new layer of emotional turmoil. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of such profound trauma. My heart goes out to her and her family as they continue to heal from this extraordinary ordeal

[@AnelisaZide]

Listening to your story has truly moved me. I can’t imagine the strength it must take to share such painful memories. I hope you continue to find healing and peace

[@lusandaphathela4190]

Amazing podcast . I am glad she found healing . Keep it up Josh , we need more in depth conversations like this .

[@tannekabrown]

Great interview 🙌🏾 Yoh this case is unreal , my heart goes out to the Nurse family

[@lucysangweni4862]

Zephany is very strong, may the mighty God keep on empowering her. It is mind blowing to comprehend what she went and is still going through. She was definitely made for a bigger purpose, much bigger than human understanding. May the mighty God heal her biological parents. I don't know how they made it through for 17 years not knowing what happened to their doctor. It must have been a torture to live through those gruesome days, months which turned to be years of heartbreaking and confusion. Prays God their sanity remained intact. May God continue to protect them! To the woman who kidnapped her, may God forgive her of what she did! May she also forgives herself.

[@DirtyDisciplesPodcast]

This was so powerful. So many people are searching for purpose and it can only come from Christ. Hurting those who hurt you won't bring healing. Having perfect lives with no hurt wont make us healthier. Our only help comes from God. Zephany, your story is amazing, your courage and strength is inspiring. The Lord will use you in great ways. May the Lord continue to heal you and those you love on both sides. May the Lord continue to grow your voice. Thank you ❤

[@js20702]

This is my first time watching your podcasts @wideawakepodcast . Your interviewing skills are top-notch. You actually listen, and you don't interrupt. The environment is warm, and I'd say she is calm and collected after everything she's gone through! Bless her ❤. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@ruwaydaphillips9426]

She has grown so much since she was a teenager. Having her own kids gave her some insight into what her parents went through.

[@andricoafrika6474]

Its so amazing how she's grown from her first interviews the insight she has now about life may she only have a blessed life going foward

[@ntsakorocha]

It's so crazy how I can relate to her testimony when our stories are so different!! God is so good and she is such an inspiration :)

[@JDSouth1444]

What a brilliant interview with a brilliant, beautiful young woman...she has so much to offer the world...I was hooked throughout

[@ValdaMuller-wc4yb]

Such an emotional story...I knew about this story but hearing everything from her mouth is so deep wow...I wish you all the best Zephany❤

[@madeleineengelbrecht5569]

Zephany and Josh. Wow!! Beautiful interview. Thank you so much.

[@calebcornelius23]

Thank you Josh for creating a platform for these inspiring stories to be heard. A thing I noticed is that South Africa is a faith based nation. Keep doing what you are doing because I trust and I am excited for the future of this podcast. All Glory To God‼️ Edit Version- I felt this story could have gone much deeper 😊

[@charmainepriestman915]

A fantastic interview, thank you Zephany, you went through so much pain and loss you are an incredibly strong, intelligent and beautiful young woman

[@wideawakepodcast]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌🏻

[@andreayaninen1523]

Remarkable testimony ❤ great interview 😊This story blessed me. A from Papua New Guinea 🇵🇬

[@CurlyCrowie]

This was so interesting. This is one of very few kidnapped kids who wasn't mistreated.

[@thandekamlala2370]

Wow. This is my first time to watch a podcast for the full 1 and a half hours - what a sad but inspiring story.

[@genesiscele]

Not me crying through this entire interview. 😭 What an incredible story.

[@ColouredXzaza]

Wow. She's BEAUUUUTTIFUL!

[@SokeNolanBerry]

Hi everyone great session Josh... Zephany love seeing the maturity and growth. The documentary is available to watch GIRL, TAKEN on Showmax

[@tebogomogotsi2458]

Watching from Ireland. Boet Josh lekker one yeah. Thank you Zeph for sharing your story.

[@lizelleheins3364]

Zephany you are a great speaker & a good storyteller, so glad to have finally heard your story ❤

[@Zani_Roodt]

I feel so much for her. Can relate in some way. At 16 my Mother introduced me to a man I never knew and told me that he is my bio Father, and that the man who raised me is not my Father. More than 10 years later I still feel like my life is a lie.

[@reagilemoloko4892]

She speaks with so much wisdom, you can see she has done the internal work! She is a beautiful person inside and out! This story still gives me goosebumps! Thank you so much for this interview!

[@amyshute8937]

Wow Zephany is a lovely woman

[@wideawakepodcast]

She is great and has such a powerful story!

[@mentalistbrainacademy]

Please read the book. The whole "nature vs nurture". This is an incredible story...from both sides

[@ColouredXzaza]

She reminds me of Felicia Goosen. Vanessa Goosens's daughter. They're both equally beautiful inside and out and have suffered so much trauma by their mums being taken away from them.

[@benitagewers6433]

I am delightful to see an episode from my country aired. Although I am well vested with the case but hearing Zephany,s voice is actually a bonus

[@byronthompson4546]

I remember when this story broke. It was crazy. Awesome podcast. I love your maturity! By the way ... We share a birthday... 28th April 🥳

[@mpaswairi]

That is great zephany for coming out stronger. Let it bring hope to others who have lost their loved ones

[@mrsamirza4392]

I am glad u got us to hear her story, watched the news yrs ago a d i cried and i cried today, cant imagine what her parents went through and what she went through after finding out about her true identity, but m glad she was loved and cared for by her abductor and her family. She turned out to be such a strong resident lady .

[@jadeabrahams6449]

Great episode Josh! thank you for interviewing her.

[@LunaLFae]

This was an intense but very good episode. Thank you

[@Caleb-o1y7n]

I need to get your book... I relate to your story..

[@rastaalapasta9087]

i just saw the title, and i already liked the interview. great work bro and keep it up. As you say long overdue, that's for you and me both.

[@zeesangs_SA]

What a strong young woman ♥️ so sorry for your ordeal. It literally sounds like the series “Blood and water” and to think that you went through that is beyond words.

[@nonhlanhlanguse5473]

The series is based on this story

[@jamie-leepienaar6117]

So sorry you had to go through all of this Miche , knowing you but still hearing this still gives me chills and tears ❤

[@renpatman]

Lost for words! So glad you're doing better and have found your purpose. Keep at it God is using you- to restored families 🎉

[@lorindaswiegers7246]

Wow. What an awesome podcast!!! So many raw emotions.. Well done Josh

[@nozidhlamini6199]

I love that Zephany has found her identity in Christ🙌🏾 what the enemy meant for evil, God has made it good🙏🏾 what a journey!!

[@manrien]

i have followed this story from day one,yoh and i had mixed emotions on what would i have done in such a situation.To see and hear your speak,makes me happy ,i can see you are good now,at ease,accepted what has happened.May you ,your family biological and non biological families,experience the Love and light of the Creator always.It touch me so when you said,my biological Mom,hugged the other Mom,i just said thank you,thank you for being there for them both.Your story is a story of hope!

[@shamillahpetersen7327]

Loved listening to Zephany side. Wishing you all of the best.

[@faizagaldhari1215]

This interview kept me riveted. Zephany, you are such a beautiful person inside and out. You are an inspiration. Love how you eloquently and humbly tell your story from the heart. Love your energy. Josh , big thumbs up to a job well done. You are talented and very sincere . You tactfully ask all the right questions .... Amazing work both of you. Thank you to both of you for a beautiful podcast. ❤

[@VickyM-h9r]

What an amazing and forgiving young lady. Sending you our love ❤️

[@TheGirlatthewindow]

I'm going through a terrible time questioning God for the purpose of my life. I'm isolated. Thank you for talking about yourself. I know I'm not the only one going through this. You're helping me. Thank you

[@BritKing411]

Great interview! I'm still shocked as I've never heard of this story.

[@wideawakepodcast]

Thank you! I’ve known about her story for years but hearing it in person from her was really cool

[@LeeAnngGlenn]

This kidnapping was 3 months before my daughter was born. I remember the worry that this could happen. I would not let anyone take my baby in the hospital. Such devastation!

[@Joudunrooi]

This interview had me in tears!! ❤

[@leighsmith6927]

One of your best episodes 👏🙌

[@sh0nnen_gho0ul77]

Beautiful and emmotional episode.keep on doing good and change people's lifes.such a strong young woman.i wonder if I would have survived had I gone through the same.God bless you for your heart and blessings upon blessings.

[@Elixir404]

Love getting notifications of new episodes!!! What an amazing interaction, i cant imagine what this family must have gone through!

[@Kimi_Adventures]

Watching from Australia What a story she’s an incredible woman.

[@Life_with_blueberryicewrld]

Where can I watch the documentary?This is a great episode btw❤

[@megancrawley_]

I have been following this story for as long as I can remember. I am currently 24 and I think of Zephany so often. This interview is inspiring, eye-opening, I am in awe at everything. What an incredible woman, and now mom too! Well done on the incredible episode Josh, this was so great to hear. I almost feel at ease hearing it from her side of things ❤

[@Nunyabusiness11222]

This was incredible!!

[@darrylfawcus8385]

Wife : babes i gave birth this morning. Husband:say no more lets raise it. 😂😂

[@emiliachivenge9317]

lol looking at it now it doesn't make sense.. why didn't he question

[@PolokoCarol]

😂😂 she was pregnant and told him before, she said her parents weren't close in that moment so months later she said "I gave birth this morning" so I assume they were separated, she had a miscarriage but didn't tell the husband until she "gave birth"

[@chickensandwich4198]

Good interview. All the best to Miche. Thanks for sharing

[@elvituritura9501]

How do you take away the opportunity and right of parents to be parents in such a very cruel way.. Now this lady and her biological parents have to work towards knowing each other from scratch alot of year's lost

[@chico_sa9605]

I cant even imagine what id do if my child got stolen🤞🏻🤯

[@leratomohapi6003]

This is sad yoh , reminds me of blood and water...she grew up in a loving household ...and adored her mom to hear all these things is sad ... I know it's selfish but she must continue her relationship with her other fake parents,the love was real , as for the real parents, patience really is rewarded, God will bless them for their patience

[@nikitamontanna952]

Blood and water season one is based on this

[@NangulaUahengo90s]

not the host saying "walk me through the days leading up to your abduction" SHE WAS 3 DAYS OLD, how on earth is she suppose to remember ??

[@Kakwasi]

From what she was told not her own recollection

[@tshegofatsoshaku5318]

This sounds like one of those stories you’ll watch at Oprah. 😢So heartbreaking

[@Black-lioness]

True it brought flash back memories of Oprah docs

[@abbyleukes]

What a wonderful interview. Thank you 😊

[@forexchartz5855]

Sad, the abducted robbed them all

[@katedakota_8-zk1uv]

Thank you for this amazing interview! Such an inspiring story!

[@heatherhofstetter488]

I've watched this video back and forth for an hour😢

[@brittneyjeptha]

Jesus saves 💓 This story is history in the making. She articulates so well. I need this book.

[@marisaveeb]

You are amazing my dear. I have followed your story from the very beginning and always prayed for your healing. To see you happy brings me so much joy. As a mama who would die for my children, the pain of your story is almost too much to bear, but you have shown that there is a life worth living even through the darkest adversity. Be blessed sweetheart ❤️

[@1nathanstephens]

Great episode as always, Josh. Always hosting the most interesting guests 👏

[@petauification]

What an incredible human being with such a complex life story. She's so resilient and honest. Look forward to reading the book and watching the documentary. Sadly an unfortunate interviewer.

[@megansmall6656]

So good! Really inspired to hear how positive and determined she is! Only God could do that!