5FM Podcasts |Full Episodes

In this episode of Pap and Politics, Thabo Baloyi sits down with author and political analyst Tessa Dooms for a conversation about some of the biggest stories shaping South Africa right now. From the Madlanga Commission and the questions it has raised about the country’s political landscape to the upcoming local government elections, Tessa unpacks the issues making headlines and what they could mean for South Africans. It’s about the news, politics and the bigger picture behind the stories we’re all talking about.

On this episode of The Champions Blueprint, Aaron Masemola sits down with Springbok Women's star Libbie Janse van Rensburg to unpack the journey behind her success. Libbie opens up about the dedication, discipline, and determination that have defined her career, reflecting on the challenges she's faced, the lessons she's learned, and the mindset that's helped her perform at the highest level of South African rugby. It's an honest conversation about leadership, discipline, and the blueprint that turned her into a champion, long before she made history as captain of the Springbok Women.

This episode explores how Lerato Nkabinde turned everyday family moments into one of South Africa's most loved online communities. We unpack how creating content with her mom became the heart of her brand, why her uniquely South African humour resonates with so many, and how authenticity has shaped her journey as a creator. Lerato shares what life is really like when the camera is off, her “fatherless” family dynamic and how she decides which opportunities align with her values. We also discuss public perception, building a relatable brand without losing yourself, and the advice she has for aspiring creators. The conversation wraps with the legacy she hopes to leave and what she wants people to see beyond the feed.

On this episode of The Champion's Blueprint, Aaron Masemola sits down with one of South Africa's fastest-rising athletics stars, Leendert Koekemoer, fresh off helping Team South Africa secure a silver medal in the men's 4x400m relay at the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone. Together, they unpack the team's record-breaking performance, the mindset behind competing on the world stage, and what it takes to thrive under pressure. Leendert also shares what's next in his journey, his upcoming goals and projects, and why he's only just getting started as one of the country's brightest sprint talents.

This episode of Pap and Politics features Lukhona Mnguni, a political analyst who is running for Mayor of Johannesburg with Rise Mzansi ahead of the 4 November 2026 local government elections. We explore his motivations for leaving political analysis for public office, his response to questions about maintaining objectivity, and his diagnosis of Johannesburg's core problems: corruption in procurement and water services, poor waste management, and disconnected ward councillors. He outlines proposed solutions including procurement technology, insourcing municipal services, and stronger community partnerships. Lastly, we touch on why South Africans need to be at the polls come the next election.

In this episode of Vibe Check with Boipelo, we capture the energy of X Fest 2026, one of Johannesburg's biggest youth culture events. Through interviews with artists, organisers, and festival-goers, we'll explore how X Fest has evolved into a celebration of Amapiano, Hip-Hop, street fashion, and creativity. 

This episode of Unmuted explores the lifelong impact of trauma, abuse, and gender-based violence through Norma’s powerful personal story. Growing up in a home marked by violence, navigating childhood grooming, becoming a young mother, surviving sexual violence, and rebuilding her life after immense hardship, Norma shares her journey from silence to advocacy. The conversation examines how trauma affects identity, relationships and opportunities, while also highlighting recovery, and the importance of speaking out. Ultimately, this is a discussion about reclaiming one's voice and creating hope and support for other survivors.

This episode of Champion’s Blueprint with Aaron Masemola focuses on Orlando Pirates’ DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) side and their historic 2025/26 title win ,the club’s first ever in the competition. We unpack the key factors behind their success this season, including their consistency, strong youth development structures, squad depth, tactical discipline, and ability to deliver in high-pressure matches during a tight title race with Mamelodi Sundowns. The conversation also explores the role of coach Roscoe Krieling in keeping the team focused throughout the campaign, and what this achievement means for the future of Orlando Pirates’ senior team pipeline. We also hear directly from two players from the championship-winning squad, Jabulani Mokone and Seth Green, as they reflect on the season, the final push for the title, and what this milestone means for their careers moving forward.

This week on Pap & Politics, we’re at the Gallagher Convention Centre for the IEC’s national launch campaign ahead of South Africa’s next local government elections. IEC Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, joins us to unpack election preparations, voter participation, election readiness, and the challenges and opportunities shaping the road to the polls. We explore the lessons of past elections, the state of election readiness, and what lies ahead for South Africa’s local democracy and electoral process.

This episode explores how Popi Sibiya built a distinctive travel storytelling brand (@thepopishow) by documenting the everyday realities of life across South Africa and the continent. We unpack where her love for travel began, the influences that shaped her perspective, and the moment she realised her adventures could become compelling digital content. She takes us behind the scenes of her creative process, from planning trips and capturing authentic moments to creating membership content and building trust with an audience that follows her journeys online. We also discuss the challenges of filming in unpredictable environments, safety considerations on the road, and the lessons she's learned through years of immersive storytelling. Karabo Ntshweng asks how she navigates misconceptions about her work, and why she remains optimistic about people despite the realities she encounters. We also explore the importance of telling proudly South African stories, what authenticity means in today's creator economy, and what's next for her growing platform. Finally, Popi shares practical advice for aspiring creators looking to find their voice and tell stories that genuinely resonate.

On this episode of Pap and Politics, Vuyo Zungula unpacks the African Transformation Movement’s push to impeach President Cyril Ramaphosa amid the ongoing Phala Phala controversy. The conversation focuses on Ramaphosa’s decision to challenge the Phala Phala report in court, his attempts to interdict impeachment proceedings, and what these moves could signal politically. Zungula also weighs in on whether Parliament’s impeachment process is being influenced, allegations that the Speaker is protecting the president, and who he believes should lead the country if Ramaphosa were to be impeached.

This episode explores how Anika Dambuza built The City Makoti into a relatable cultural brand. We unpack where it all began, the moment she chose to share her life publicly, and why her content resonates with so many. She takes us through her creative process, balancing planning with spontaneity, and how family plays a key role in shaping her identity and storytelling. We also touch on setting boundaries, navigating challenges, and how her idea of success has evolved. Karabo Ntshweng asks what’s next for her, what she hopes people see beyond the feed, and lastly, what simple piece of advice she has for aspiring creators.

From a nationwide talent search to one of the biggest stages in dance music, this special two-in-one episode of Vibe Check follows the electrifying conclusion of the MXD DJ Search as finalists from Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town battle it out for the ultimate crown. We go behind the decks for exclusive finalist interviews, witness the unforgettable crowning moment, and catch the newly crowned winner’s; Axecllusive’s first major festival set at Ultra South Africa. From high-stakes competition to the pulse of the country’s premier music festival, the journey continues with unforgettable performances, vibrant crowd energy, and exclusive conversations with some of the scene’s biggest names, including Shimza, Kitty Amor, and Cinnim. This episode is a celebration of rising talent, major moments, and the undeniable power of South Africa’s music culture.

On this week’s episode, UP-Tuks Rugby captain Dillon Smit and vice-captain Chadlee Valentine sit down with Aaron Masemola to discuss their recent Varsity Cup victory. The conversation explores the strategies implemented both on and off the field that led to their success, as well as what this win means for the future of varsity rugby.

On this week’s episode of Vibe Check hosted by Boipelo Mooketsi, we turned the volume all the way up as we went on a hunt with MXD to search for the hottest up-and-coming DJ who could ultimately earn a spot on the Ultra South Africa stage. 5FMs very own Kyle Cassim played a pivotal role as one of the judges on the #MXDDjSearch and also held down the Pretoria leg, while Your Radio Bae took on the Cape Town and Durban legs in this episode; bringing together different cities, sounds, and perspectives in the ultimate hunt for the next big DJ.