StroomStories: Johan Weideman Shares the Journey of Padlangs Coffee Shop
- Karen Scheepers
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
In this episode of Stroom Stories, Pieter sits down with Johan Weideman, co-founder of Padlangs Coffee Shop, for a deep and joyful conversation about cycling, coffee, kids, and community.
The Coffee Shop That’s More Than a Shop
“It’s a concept,” Johan insists early in the chat. “Not just a business.”
Padlangs Coffee Shop is the brainchild of Johan and his wife Liesel, two spirited cyclists and community builders who envisioned more than a place to sip coffee. It’s a lifestyle hub, a space for the health-minded, the family-oriented, the early risers, and even the not-so-active who simply want a quiet space to indulge in a chocolate cake.
“Our vision is grounded in active living,” Johan says. “We wanted to create a community around movement, wellness, and enjoying the good things in life, good food, good coffee, and good people.”
Coffee & Culture: A Community Fuel Station
The coffee isn’t an afterthought at Padlangs, it’s the cornerstone. Johan and Liesel tested fifty different beans before selecting their signature brew, which now draws coffee lovers from all over Potchefstroom.
“Every morning, cyclists and runners start their day here,” Johan shares. “We open as early as 5:30 AM. You can ride, run, or walk, then come back to us for your fix.”
Their Instagram-worthy coffee art and carefully crafted sourdough roosters, hearty chicken mayo toasties, and the now-famous “Boss Burger” made from Gemsbok meat make Padlangs a local favorite. They even grow their own lettuce and tomatoes, straight from their land to your plate.
Kids, Tracks, and Two-Wheeled Adventures
Padlangs isn’t just for adults. It’s a haven for families, with spaces thoughtfully developed for young children and adventurous teens.
“We built a scooter track for toddlers and a balance-bike route for ages two to six,” Johan explains. “Then we have a 1.6 km track for walking, jogging, or biking for older kids and adults.”
Their goal? Functional fun, where balance, flexibility, and strength come naturally. Bridges, rivers, and turns offer an evolving challenge. As Johan puts it, “We’re building something that gets better every month.”
A pump track and obstacle course are on the horizon, and the space promises future opportunities for local school events and sponsors to get involved.
No Judgement, Just Joy
One of Padlangs’ guiding principles is its welcoming, judgment-free atmosphere.
“You don’t have to be an athlete to belong here,” Johan says. “You can come for the chocolate cake. That’s fine. There’s no judgement, just joy.”
Whether you're a Comrades Marathon contender or a grandparent on a morning stroll, you’ll find your place. The ethos of the coffee shop blends inclusivity with lifestyle, fitness with flexibility, and health with happiness.
Food with Soul, Served with Intention
Liesel, according to Johan, is the creative soul behind the ever-changing menu. From artisan buns to fresh roaster cakes and locally sourced ingredients, everything at Padlangs is homemade and hearty.
“The Boss Burger is our showstopper,” Johan laughs. “It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s healthy too.”
Add a strong coffee, a side of fresh salad, or one of Liesel’s spontaneous culinary creations, and you’ve got a plate full of purpose.
Saturdays at Padlangs: More Than a Market
Every Saturday, Padlangs transforms into a vibrant space of shared energy. Locals gather before sunrise to practice for races or to meet friends for coffee. Johan and Liesel run their own 5 AM session before welcoming the early crowd.
“It’s become a community ritual,” Johan says. “You know the faces, you know the stories. It’s personal.”
Their farm-style fresh market, no gimmicks, just produce, is open every weekend. Regulars know to come early for their orders, and even mid-week lunch pickups are gaining popularity.
Active Roots, Passionate Paths
Johan’s journey to Padlangs is as active as the life he now promotes. A former university athlete with a history in gymnastics, tennis, and cycling, he met his match in Liesel, whose family shares an equally impressive athletic streak.
Together, they’ve built more than a business, they’ve shaped a movement.
“It's not just about sport,” Johan reflects. “It’s about the values that sport instills—discipline, passion, and community.”
Coming Soon: The Model Aeroplane Track
Toward the end of the conversation, Johan shares an exciting addition to the Padlangs experience: model aeroplane flying.
Though still in its early stages, a designated open space near the coffee shop will soon host model aircraft events. Johan envisions building a simple but engaging track for radio-controlled planes, providing enthusiasts and beginners a safe and enjoyable flying zone.
The track will support basic flight maneuvers, takeoffs, turns, loops, and gentle landings. It’s not intended for competition yet, but the area is being developed to accommodate more technical flights in the future, with the possibility of workshops and demos for children and adults alike.
Join the Journey
Padlangs is located just 1.5 km from Potchefstroom’s town center, close enough to be convenient, far enough to feel like the countryside. Their GPS pin? Plot 91, just off the Eindhoven Road.
You’ll find them on Instagram and Facebook, where community updates, events, and promotions are shared regularly.
Click on the button below to watch the Afrikaans Interview:
Remeber to tune into the next episode of StroomStories on The Go-To Guy Facebook Page.
Comments