The year of podcasts — Five Mzansi celebs who owned their stories and platforms in 2024

18 December 2024 - 17:23
By Kgomotso Moganedi
Lebo Keswa will launch her 'My Journey' podcast in October.
Image: Thapelo Morebudi Lebo Keswa will launch her 'My Journey' podcast in October.

More celebrities dived into the world of podcasting this year, launching shows that cover everything from relationship advice to thought-provoking discussions. Eager to take control of their own platforms these stars are bringing fresh perspectives to the podcasting scene. Here are five notable celebrity podcasts that debuted in 2024.

The Flymotion Makhanya Podcast

The Flymotion Makhanya Podcast has quickly become a hit in KwaZulu-Natal, covering topics such as black music and black business. Comedian Sandile “Flymotion” Makhanya launched the podcast after his contract with Gagasi FM wasn’t renewed. Sandile, a former member of the Gagasi FM breakfast crew, spoke to TshisaLIVE about his motivation for starting the podcast.

“KwaZulu-Natal artists don’t have a prominent platform. Everything happens in Johannesburg and I want to change that. I want to give local voices a space to express themselves. This podcast is going to be the biggest in the province soon.”

The Shady PHodcast

The Shady PHodcast is hosted by Warrick “Warras The Shady Lurker” Stock and Phind'Gcobe “DJ PH” Madubela. Their fearless opinions on the world of pop culture, among other news interests, is what will turn tables and up the ante in a reimagined way.

“We can’t deny how podcasts have changed media consumption, not just locally but globally,” said Warras and PH. “Podcasts have given people like us the freedom to speak openly and they create niche communities where listeners can connect without fear of judgment. We’re here to spark those conversations.”

My Journey 

Media personality Lebo Keswa’s podcast My Journey premiered shortly after the launch of her T-shirt brand. In her first episode, Lebo explained the focus of the podcast and thanked Lungelo, the man who first interviewed her in a podcast, for helping her get started.

“Without him, I wouldn’t have a podcast,” she said. “The episode was fun as I got to overcome one of my biggest fears which is stage fright. For some reason I was confident and comfortable. I was just addressing everything that has been happening with my life on social media and in the media and talking about how it was intended to break me, yet it made me.”

Unpacked with Relebogile Mabotja

This is the official podcast for the daily show Unpacked hosted by media personality Relebogile. The show unpacks social issues and taboos that don't get spoken about in mainstream and social media. Media personality and radio presenter Relebogile is back with the second chapter of her popular YouTube show Unpacked. Launched on November 26, this season promises engaging storytelling that goes behind headlines. Based in Johannesburg, Relebogile is known for her warm, relatable and conversationalt style.