The podcasting scene in South Africa has exploded in recent years, with a growing community of creators and listeners turning to the medium for entertainment, insight, and connection.
Whether you’re looking for deep dives into crime stories, inspiring conversations, or local banter that feels like home, South African podcasts have it all.
Here’s a curated list of the top 10 South African podcasts you should be tuning into right now:
1. Podcast and Chill with MacG
If you’re looking for unfiltered, raw, and often hilarious conversations, Podcast and Chill is the one. Hosted by MacG, Sol Phenduka, and Ghost Lady, this show dives into Mzansi’s entertainment world with celebrity guests and candid conversations that often go viral for their honesty.
Genre: Entertainment, Pop Culture
Best For: Fans of celebrity gossip, music, and authentic South African slang.
2. Wisdom & Wellness with Mpoomy Ledwaba
This beautifully produced podcast by entrepreneur and content creator Mpoomy Ledwaba focuses on intentional living. Topics range from mental health and faith to entrepreneurship and personal growth.
Genre: Wellness, Personal Development
Best For: Listeners seeking purpose-driven conversations and a dose of positivity.
3. True Crime South Africa
Hosted by Nicole Engelbrecht, True Crime South Africa is the country’s leading true crime podcast. Each episode examines a local crime in gripping detail—offering a chilling yet respectful look at the stories that shocked the nation.
Genre: True Crime
Best For: Fans of investigative storytelling and local crime cases.
4. What Now? with Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah’s return to audio has been met with excitement worldwide. While not exclusively South African in content, his background and perspective resonate deeply with local listeners. Expect conversations with thought leaders, entertainers, and reflections on global events.
Genre: Society & Culture, Global Affairs
Best For: Fans of smart humor and global insights with a South African heart.
5. The Diary of a CEO
While this is a UK-based podcast, The Diary of a CEO has a huge following in South Africa. Hosted by Steven Bartlett, the show features vulnerable and practical conversations with entrepreneurs, athletes, and creatives.
Genre: Business, Personal Growth
Best For: Aspiring entrepreneurs and deep thinkers.
6. On Purpose with Jay Shetty
This globally popular podcast has struck a chord with many South Africans looking for meaning, mindfulness, and motivation. Jay Shetty brings spiritual wisdom and psychological tips into everyday life.
Genre: Self-Help, Spirituality
Best For: Those on a journey of personal and emotional healing.
7. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast
Based on Mark Manson’s bestselling book, this podcast strips back the fluff and delivers blunt, practical advice about happiness, values, and life in general—something that resonates well in SA’s often no-nonsense culture.
Genre: Philosophy, Self-Help
Best For: Realists and minimalists tired of toxic positivity.
8. The Huberman Lab
Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman breaks down complex science into actionable tools. While not a South African podcast, it has a solid following among local students, professionals, and wellness enthusiasts.
Genre: Science, Health
Best For: Anyone curious about how the brain and body really work.
9. The Mel Robbins Podcast
Mel Robbins brings high-energy coaching into podcast form. Her advice resonates with South Africans looking for resilience and mental clarity in tough times.
Genre: Motivation, Coaching
Best For: Those needing a weekly boost or a life reset.
10. Chasing the Sound
This audio documentary podcast explores South African music’s historical, cultural, and social impact. From apartheid-era censorship to modern-day amapiano, it’s a must-listen for any music lover.
Genre: Music, History
Best For: Lovers of music and culture with a local focus.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re jogging through the suburbs of Jozi, cooking in a Cape Town flat, or commuting in Durban traffic, there’s a podcast here to keep your mind buzzing and your spirit inspired. South Africa’s podcast space is only getting stronger—and it’s the perfect time to start listening.
Which ones are your favourite? Drop your recommendations in the comments below!
