South Africa’s Top 10 Most Viewed Podcasts 2026

South Africa’s podcast landscape has experienced remarkable growth in 2026, with local content creators now commanding audiences that rival international productions. The country’s diverse podcast ecosystem reflects its rich cultural tapestry, spanning entertainment, music, business, and personal development. With 3.2 million South Africans now regularly consuming podcast content, the medium has firmly established itself as a dominant force in the nation’s media landscape.

The Undisputed Champion: Podcast and Chill with MacG

Sitting comfortably at the top of the charts is Podcast and Chill with MacG, a phenomenon that has transcended podcasting to become a cultural institution. Launched in July 2018 by broadcaster Macgyver Mukwevho, the show has amassed over 1.5 million subscribers and regularly attracts 8.5 million monthly views. The podcast’s unfiltered approach to celebrity interviews, featuring everyone from EFF president Julius Malema to artists like Emtee and Pearl Thusi, has created a loyal fanbase known as “chillers.” The trio of MacG, co-host Sol Phenduka, and the mysterious off-camera Ghost Lady have perfected the art of extracting candid, sometimes controversial conversations from South Africa’s biggest personalities. With over 900 episodes released and counting, the Podcast and Chill Network has expanded to include multiple spin-off shows, cementing its position as South Africa’s premier podcast destination.

Music Podcasts Dominate the Charts

The second and third positions belong to music-focused podcasts, highlighting South Africans’ deep connection to audio entertainment. Djy Jaivane’s MidTempo Sessions claims the runner-up spot with 850,000 subscribers and 6.2 million monthly views. The electronic and amapiano performer has cultivated a signature sound that resonates with house music enthusiasts across the country. Each session, typically running one to two hours, showcases his deep understanding of South Africa’s vibrant electronic music scene. Following closely is Knight SA’s MidTempo Sessions with 720,000 subscribers and 5.8 million monthly views. Edwin Cornelius Fortune, known professionally as Knight SA, has released over 75 sessions that have become essential listening for midtempo and deep house fans. These music podcasts demonstrate that South Africans aren’t just consuming talk content but are actively seeking curated musical experiences.

Trevor Noah Brings Global Perspective Home

At number four, Trevor Noah’s What Now? podcast attracts 680,000 subscribers and 4.9 million monthly views, proving that the comedian’s appeal extends far beyond his Daily Show tenure. This Spotify-exclusive podcast focuses on social issues, current events, and compelling human stories, all delivered with Noah’s characteristic wit and insight. His global perspective combined with his South African roots creates a unique lens through which listeners can understand world events. The weekly releases maintain consistent engagement, with South African audiences particularly appreciating Noah’s ability to contextualize international issues through a local frame of reference.

Business and Finance Command Significant Audiences

The Money Show, hosted by veteran broadcaster Bruce Whitfield, holds the fifth position with 450,000 subscribers and 3.7 million monthly views. As a longstanding financial institution in South Africa’s media landscape, the podcast delivers daily episodes covering business trends, market movements, and economic analysis. Whitfield’s expertise and connections in the business world ensure listeners receive timely, relevant information about both local and global markets. The show’s consistent daily publishing schedule has built a dedicated audience of investors, business professionals, and anyone interested in understanding South Africa’s economic trajectory.

True Crime Captivates the Nation

True Crime South Africa occupies the sixth spot with 420,000 subscribers and 3.4 million monthly views. The podcast’s comprehensive coverage of both solved and unsolved South African crime cases has tapped into the global true crime phenomenon while maintaining a distinctly local flavor. The show’s detailed research and respectful handling of sensitive cases have earned it credibility among listeners who seek understanding of South Africa’s complex relationship with crime and justice. Each episode offers insight into the country’s criminal justice system while honoring the victims and their families.

Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth

Vusi Thembekwayo’s Ideas That Matter ranks seventh with 380,000 subscribers and 3.1 million monthly views. The entrepreneur and speaker’s podcast explores business strategy, leadership, and innovation through thought-provoking discussions. Released biweekly, each episode draws from Thembekwayo’s extensive first-hand business experience, making it essential listening for aspiring entrepreneurs and established professionals alike. His ability to distill complex business concepts into actionable insights has made the podcast a favorite among South Africa’s ambitious business community.

BizNews Radio, hosted by Alec Hogg, claims eighth position with 340,000 subscribers and 2.8 million monthly views. The podcast features in-depth interviews with business leaders and thought leaders from South Africa and internationally. Hogg’s journalistic rigor and extensive network ensure that listeners gain access to perspectives they won’t find elsewhere, making BizNews Radio a valuable resource for understanding both local and global business trends.

Wellness and International Business Round Out the Top Ten

Mpoomy Ledwaba’s Wisdom & Wellness podcast ranks ninth with 310,000 subscribers and 2.5 million monthly views. The speaker, author, and entrepreneur delivers authentic conversations about personal development and holistic well-being, featuring expert guests weekly. Her relatable approach to growth and self-improvement resonates particularly with audiences seeking practical guidance for navigating life’s challenges. The podcast’s focus on wellness reflects a growing South African interest in mental health and personal development.

Completing the top ten is The Matt Brown Show with 280,000 subscribers and 2.2 million monthly views. This podcast has achieved global reach, ranking in the top 2.5 percent of podcasts worldwide with over 4 million total downloads across more than 100 countries. Brown’s international business perspective offers South African listeners insights into global markets and trends, helping them understand how local developments fit into the broader international context.

The Future of South African Podcasting

South Africa’s podcast industry shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. With 68 percent of listeners engaging with content for over an hour weekly and one in four tuning in daily, podcasts have become an integral part of South African media consumption. The diversity of content in the top ten demonstrates that South African audiences have sophisticated tastes spanning entertainment, music, business, true crime, and personal development. As production quality continues to improve and more creators enter the space, the competition for listeners’ attention will only intensify, ultimately benefiting audiences with even better content. The success of these top ten podcasts proves that South African stories, voices, and perspectives have not only local appeal but increasingly command international attention and respect.