The Pioneer Podcast

The Pioneer Podcast, hosted by Ernst Roets and produced by Lex Libertas, is a weekly show focusing on South African politics, culture, and Afrikaner self-determination. Released every Thursday on platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, it features Roets, a constitutional law expert and Afrikaner activist, discussing topics such as decentralization, farm murders, free speech, and Western heritage with various guests. The podcast often critiques centralized governance and race-based policies. Episodes provide in-depth analysis and are aimed at audiences interested in South African current events and Afrikaner issues.

The Destructive Nature of Gender Theory | Dr Gergely Szilvay | TPP#64

In this episode of The Pioneer Podcast, I speak with Hungarian author, Gergely Szilvay and we dive into his book called 'A Critique of Gender Theory: Reflections on the Anthropological Revolution from Feminism to Transgenderism'. We discuss where this theory originated, how it is presented and why it is flawed. Furthermore, we discuss the practical consequences and how it is being utilised as an attack on the nuclear family, communities and Western Civilisation. If you have children that are being exposed to this ideology, this is a must watch. Click here to sign up to the Lex Libertas Newsletter - https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/newsletter

10-02
32:40

South Africa's Urban Crisis | Cilliers Brink | TPP #63

In this episode of The Pioneer Podcast, Cilliers Brink, a prominent DA leader and former mayor of Tshwane, discuss the complex landscape of metro politics, economic challenges, and governance strategies in South Africa. We delve into the political instability caused by coalition chaos, the enduring influence of ANC networks rooted in the 1997 Mafikeng deployment policy, and the urgent need to weaken entrenched corruption. Brink shares his perspectives on restoring financial stability, rebuilding infrastructure, and embracing "functional federalism" to empower local governments. The discussion also touches on national leadership and the personal mindset required to lead effectively under pressure.   You can support Lex Libertas here - https://donate.pioneerinitiative.org.za/en/ 

09-25
45:20

The State of the International Conservative Movement | TPP#62

In this episode of the Pioneer Podcast, I talk about the state of the international conservative movement. In this regard I share five observations: three observations about the international conservative movement as a whole, and also two observations about the unique role that Afrikaners and other Western minorities from South Africa can play in this regard.   You can support Lex Libertas here - https://donate.pioneerinitiative.org.za/en/

09-18
25:56

Where we stand | TPP #61

We have been overwhelmed with messages after publication of last week’s episode, in which we discuss the Lex Libertas plan. A documented version of the plan will soon be available on our website. In this episode I explain where we stand in terms of taking action based on the plan. I also respond to some of the most important questions we have received. It’s important to understand that we have to roll out the plan in phases. I explain why and I also explain the first phase.   Click here to sign up as a contributor to Lex Libertas: https://donate.pioneerinitiative.org.za/en/

09-17
37:43

The Many, Many Commissions of Cyril Ramaphosa | TPP #59

Lex Libertas just released a report called "The many, many commissions of Cyril Ramaphosa". This report shed some light on all the judiciary commissions, dialogues, panels, advisory councils and task teams Ramaphosa has established since the start of his presidency. Lex Libertas argues that this amounts to a repetitive delay tactic to deflect from taking decisive action which might lead to internal divisions in the ruling political elite. As a result, the general public suffers from commission fatigue, and a loss of faith in the South African government. Further, Lex Libertas argues that the solution is decentralisation of the political system in South Africa to facilitate autonomy and self-governance for the various communities that live here. You can read the full report here - https://cdn.lexlibertas.org.za/reports/2025/08/1756321599353-vcxcap-The_Many__Many_Commissions_of_Cyril_Ramaphosa.pdf

08-28
25:58

Expropriation is already happening in South Africa | Theo de Jager | TPP#58

In this episode, Theo de Jager, Executive Director of the Southern Africa Agriculture Initiative (SAAI) shares his first hand experience of expropriation of farms in South Africa. We focus on the specific case of Akkerland and how the Ombudsman recently ruled in SAAI's favour after false reports on this case from News24.   If you would like to support this podcast, pleas visit https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/.

08-21
38:17

The Afrikaner Dream Lives on | TPP #57

In this episode of the Pioneer Podcast, I discuss why I believe the Afrikaner Dream is still alive. I begin with observations from philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, how Alexis de Tocqueville described America in 1835, and what the American Dream is today. I then focus on our own history—the history of the Afrikaners in South Africa—before turning to the present. Lastly, I also discuss the future and how young people identify with being Afrikaners, and I motivate why I say the Afrikaner Dream lives on.     If you would like to support this podcast, or know more about Lex Libertas, please visit our website - https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/

08-14
33:47

Uncovering Land Rights Abuse | Joe Emilio | TPP #56

In this episode of The Pioneer Podcast, you can listen to the unsettling conversation with Joe Emilio about his recent documentary, "Stolen Ground." The documentary focuses on the violent land invasion of the Tygerberg Raceway in 2020 and how this community hub was completely demolished by illegal occupants. We further discuss the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act (PIE Act) and how it was exploited and weaponized by these landgrabbers. You can watch the full documentary here - https://youtu.be/u4XZaRrhaZM If you would like to help fund a Stolen Ground 2 & 3, you can support Joe Emilio here - https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/stolen-ground-2   If you like this podcast, remember to share it with you friend and community. If you would like to know more about Lex Libertas, please visit https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/ 

08-07
32:10

Discussing South Africa's constitutional crisis in Washington DC | TPP #55

On 24 July 2025, I participated in a discussion at the Conservative Partnership Institute (CPI) in Washington DC about the constitutional realignment of South Africa. This follows on a two reports published by Lex Libertas: - The Reclaiming Freedom report, in which we discuss the crisis in South Africa and possible actions that the U.S. might take to contribute to a solution. - ⁠The Truth be Told report, in which we share a variety of personal stories by people affected by farm attacks, race laws, targeting of property rights and state failure. Thank you to the CPI for hosting this event and especially to Emily Jashinsky for being such a fantastic moderator. If you'd like to support the work of Lex Libertas, visit: www.lexlibertas.org.za

07-31
50:23

Reclaiming Freedom | TPP #54

In this episode of the Pioneer Podcast, I discuss and read the report that Lex Libertas has just published in Washington, D.C. The report, entitled Reclaiming Freedom, argues in favour of stability in the region by working toward a decentralized political system. I explain that the report is not a call for violent uprising or illegal measures, but for increased international pressure through tangible and practical actions to increase stability in South Africa and avoid catastrophe. We need your support in this cause. You can support this by becoming a contributor to Lex Libertas at www.lexlibertas.org.za/donate.

07-24
40:39

Preserving Western Civilisation | Andrej Kolárik | TPP #53

In this week's episode of The Pioneer Podcast, I speak with Andrej Kolárik of the Ladislav Hanus Institute in Bratislava, Slovakia, about the conservative movement in South Africa and the West. He provided some insight into what communism in Central Europe looked like and the dangers associated with it. We also examine the general state of the West and explore what can be done to preserve Western civilization. The Pioneer Podcast is proudly brought to you by Lex Libertas. If you are interested in the work of Lex Libertas, please visit our website here:https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/

07-17
31:06

Trump's tariffs and our plan | TPP#51

In this episode of The Pioneer Podcast we take a look at the 30% tariffs that President Donald Trump has recently announced for South African export to the United States, but more than that I focus on our plan at Lex Libertas in response to the crisis in South Africa. Visit www.lexlibertas.org.za to sign up to our newsletter.

07-10
23:25

The first 100 days of Lex Libertas | TPP #51

On 15 June, it was officially 100 days since the announcement of Lex Libertas, then called the Pioneer Initiative. In today's podcast, we take a look at the progress and accomplishments of the first 100 days and what lies ahead for Lex Libertas.   Click here to read our 100 Days of Lex Libertas document - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RzKEIJ6zW8TjTkH1663NK53yfN0PqM6h/view?usp=sharing Help us achieve what we set out for by contributing to Lex Libertas: https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/donate 

07-03
20:10

The Citizen and the Nation | Márton Veisz | TPP#50

In this episode of The Pioneer Podcast, I sit down with Márton Veisz from the Foundation for a Civic Hungary. To find out more, please visit https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/en.

06-26
27:28

Afrikaners and the New York Young Republican Club | Stefano Forte | TPP#49

In this episode of the Pioneer Podcast, I speak with the newly elected president of the New York Young Republican Club (NYYRC), Stefano Forte about the battle for Western civilisation. Support the Pioneer Podcast by becoming a contributor to Lex Libertas: www.lexlibertas.org.za  

06-19
30:41

A Flemish MP’s Stand in the Flemish Parliament | Kristof Slagmulder | TPP #48

In this special episode, you can listen to my discussion with Kristof Slagmulder, a Flemish Member of Parliament, about his decision to deliver a speech in the Flemish Parliament condemning the "Kill the Boer" song, the feedback he received afterward, and his reasons for supporting the Afrikaners. If you would like to support this podcast please visit https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/donate/  to join as a contributor.

06-12
10:22

Afrikaners and the preservation of Western civilisation in Africa | Ernst van Zyl | TPP #47

I spoke with Ernst van Zyl, Head of Public Relations at AfriForum about Afrikaners and our resolve to protect Western civilisation in Africa. Support AfriForum here: http://afriforum.co.za For more information, visit https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/ 

06-05
40:33

The beginning of Lex Libertas and the way forward | TPP #46

In this episode of The Pioneer Podcast, we do some housekeeping. I talk about Lex Libertas and the move from the Pioneer Initiative. We further discuss the underlying philosophy that underpins this organisation, how the organisation operates, what it does and intends to do. Lastly we talk about the way forward and the road ahead to a more sustainable political dispensation. If you want to join as a contributor, please visit https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/ .

05-29
32:18

The Rise of a Multiple Constitutional Order | Professor Koos Malan (Part three)| TPP #45

This week, you can listen to the third episode of a three-part series with constitutional law expert and writer Professor Koos Malan. We discuss how the current dispensation in South Africa is under extreme pressure, how Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) is impacting the nation, the wishful thinking of the masses, and other factors indicating that the centralized government has failed. We also explore possible solutions and discuss the roles different communities will need to play to make this a reality.   If you like this content and would like to see more, please visit https://www.lexlibertas.org.za/donate/ to make a contribution.

05-22
41:00

The Impact of Constitutional Changes on Society | Professor Koos Malan (Part two) | TPP #44

This week, you can listen to the second episode of a three-part series with constitutional law expert and writer Professor Koos Malan. We discuss the extent to which the South African Constitution has already changed and is currently changing, as opposed to the concerns that people have about potential future changes. We talk about what this means for society at large, the deterioration of public society in South Africa, and the various opportunities within this problem.     If you like this content and would like to see more, please visit https://www.pioneerinitiative.org.za/ to make a contribution.

05-15
38:25

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