In this episode, we dig into the bizarre saga of American evangelicals, stolen artifacts from Iraq, and a DIY biblical empire-building project gone very, very wrong.

Then, some riffing on current events and a few past episodes.

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Suggestions? Questions? Comments? You can find us at helltopaypodcast@gmail.com

Theme music: War Machine (The Purpose of a System Is What It Does) by Sister Ray Davies. Check them out: https://www.instagram.com/sisterraydavies

We’re joined by Nathan Apffel, filmmaker of the upcoming Amazon docuseries The Religion Business. In exposing the dark underbelly of America’s wealthiest preachers, he’s faced arrest, a shattered elbow, and more than a few powerful enemies — yet each setback only fuelled his determination to follow the money in this trillion-dollar grift.

You can watch the film at: https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/ and follow Nathan’s exploits and forthcoming podcast series on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/religionbusiness

Support us by signing up for our Substack at https://helltopaypodcast.substack.com/

Suggestions? Questions? Comments? You can find us at helltopaypodcast@gmail.com

Theme music: War Machine (The Purpose of a System Is What It Does) by Sister Ray Davies. Check them out: https://www.instagram.com/sisterraydavies

In this episode of Hell to Pay, Sipho and Elle explore the fascinating world where football and spirituality collide. From Paul Pogba’s alleged consultation with a marabout, to Egypt’s sacrificial rituals before the Africa Cup of Nations, to stories of witchdoctors on the sidelines, we trace how magic continues to shape the beautiful game across Africa. Along the way, we unpack the deep roots of African Traditional Religion, share personal stories of sangomas, and examine why chants, rituals, and spells are not mere superstition but part of a larger cultural tapestry. At stake is more than just winning matches — it’s about empowerment, identity, and how African players reclaim space in a global sport that often sidelines them.

Sources:

• Huffington Post: I was taught not to remember my grandfather. This is why I do.
• ESPN: Witchcraft central to Paul Pogba blackmail saga, but it's nothing new in French football
• Africa is a Country: the ‘magic’ of the beautiful game
• Youtube: Players are forced to use magic in South African football