Podcasts have revolutionised the world of listening. They take the format of radio shows, which allows for a variety of topics to be covered even within the same channel – every day is different. But they are internet-based and round-the-clock accessible, which gives listeners control over when to tune in and out, and to enjoy their faves on the go.
Mzansi has not been left behind, as we have some great podcasts coming up and changing the way we listen. Here are five top Mzansi podcasts you need to give a listen.
Podcast and Chill with MacG
It would be a great injustice if this list didn’t start with Mzansi’s favourite podcast, Podcast and Chill with MacG. Every new episode is like a controversial box of chocolates: you just don’t know what you’re gonna get.
As you would imagine, the hosts, MacG, Sol Phenduka and Ghost Lady have come under fire multiple times for the things that have been said on the platform. They were almost cancelled after Jub Jub’s interview which resulted in everything crashing down, but they made it clear that those were not their own opinions, they merely provided a platform for the rapper to speak his truth.
Every week they top trends for controversy, and every week their position as the country’s top podcast solidifies. I guess there is no fan base as loyal as the Chillers are, huh?
Of course Rea Gopane had to come second. His is one of the most controversial podcasts in the country. In fact, it is what made him famous in the first place, although it quickly turned into the very thing that may turn out to be his downfall.
His podcast, Rea and Black Step Podcast, has been the eye of multiple storms. It is on the platform that he first got into a war with Bonang Matheba, after he alleged that she had introduced her ex boyfriend AKA to drugs. He also said some choice things about Mr JazziQ.
His words have landed him in trouble, but he doesn’t seem to learn the lesson. Both celebrities have sued him for defamation, and he is already hundreds of thousands of rand in debt at this point, but he continues to trigger Bonang and to speak ill of her in public, to the point that his mother had to step in. Ah! The brash folly of youth.
Let’s take a break from the more controversial podcasts and take a look at something less dramatic. After School Is After School With Sis G.U is a podcast by content creator and YouTuber Gugulethu Nyatsumba.
As a 20 year old, she is just now properly getting into adulthood, and for those of us reading this who are above 20 know exactly how tough and overwhelming adulthood can be for the first few years. Gugulethu uses the platform to open up about the challenges she faces in her 20s, and talks about sex, boundaries and people pleasing, along with other such topics.
In her own words, she loves to motivate people to be the best version of themselves, and hopes that her platform is a source of that. Definitely give it a listen if you want someone you can laugh and cry with as she talks in your ear.
Mpoomy Ledwaba is the wife of Idols SA finalist and recording artist Brenden Praise. Although she first got famous for getting married to him (she was rather young too), she has since used her business smarts and her position in the spotlight to build a small empire.
Her podcast, Wisdom and Wellness, has served as her voice by which she influences the world for a while now. She has conducted interviews with notable figures, many of whom own big businesses in the country, including the founder of Basani Cleaners, McMillan Masoka, and Kayise Ngcula.
She also uses the platform to engage more with fans and followers, as she provides a sneak peek into her life. She and Brenden occasionally sit down together and talk about their marriage life, which is great for other young couples hoping to get married to get some insight.
DJ and music producer Simpiwe Sihawu, commonly known as Mr Thela, has his fair share of big songs, including Asbambisane and Abathakathi, but the decks are not the only place he shines.
Born and bred in Cape Town, it is no wonder his is one of Mzansi’s foremost music podcasts. He is a simple man, so his platform is just as simply named – Mr Thela’s Podcast. But there is nothing super simple about the podcast, as he speaks about and plays a wide selection of music, sometimes themed.
Although he may have taken a hiatus, he is not back by popular demand. If you’re into music podcasts, this is definitely one to check out as soon as possible.
Whether you’re into drama or music, or just like listening to some soothing sage advice, there is something for everyone in the world of podcasts. And even though the medium is yet to blow up in Mzansi, these five great channels are sure to get you started and immersed in podcast culture, so don’t hesitate to check them out.
