In Malawi’s fast evolving media landscape, a new generation of storytellers is breaking free from the constraints of radio and television, finding their voices through podcasts. Armed with microphones, creativity and purpose, young Malawians are using digital platforms to spark conversations on pop culture, entertainment, and social issues in ways that feel authentic, uncensored and deeply relatable.
Once unfamiliar to many, podcasts are now becoming the preferred medium for storytelling and dialogue among urban youth. From creative expression to professional insight, Malawi’s emerging podcasters are redefining how stories are told and consumed in the digital era.
Producer and host of Lab20 Podcast Denis Imaan said podcasting is more than just entertainment as it is a bridge between Malawi’s creative and intellectual worlds.
“My inspiration has evolved, but the core mission remains: to platform the full spectrum of Malawian voices. Traditional media often separates serious topics from entertainment. Lab20 deliberately blends them, showing that a musician’s journey can sit alongside sociologists, researcher or a tech innovator’s new app,”Imaan said.
Since 2018, Imaan has been navigating the challenges of growing an audience while developing the podcasting market.
“Building a consistent audience and turning it into a sustainable venture is difficult. We are essentially building both the product and the market at the same time,” he said.
Similarly, executive producer and co-founder of Face2Face Podcast Brian Mungomo believes the medium fills a critical gap in Malawi’s entertainment landscape by offering space for reflective long form dialogue.
“Face2Face was born out of a personal yearning for deeper and more thoughtful conversations. We already had strong entertainment platforms, but there was room for intentional dialogue where business leaders, creatives and cultural influencers could share their journeys in a more relaxed, honest way,” Mungomo said.
According to Mungomo the authenticity of podcasts is what makes them resonate with listeners.
“People connect with conversations that feel real. They see their own struggles and ambitions reflected in the stories.”
For the audience, podcasts provide an alternative to the scripted and controlled environment of traditional radio and TV.
A student at Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences(Mubas) Ethel Mwandongwa says podcasts have become an essential part of her weekly routine.
“I cannot go a week without listening usually two to three times a week. I enjoy topics on personal growth, life on social media, music, relationships, friendships and lesbians, gay, bi sexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) experiences. Podcasts let us talk about real issues, depression, relationships, even business without fear or trying to impress anyone like on radio or TV. They motivate me and help me navigate life, “she explained.
Another youth who likes listening to podcast Bright Kampani, echoes this view, adding that the rise of podcasts demonstrates how podcasting is becoming a powerful tool of story telling.
“Podcasts are fun, usually short, and give direct meaning to the conversations. They are motivating and inspiring. I use the ideas to build my career and develop new skills. The biggest challenges are network issues and the data costs for longer episodes,” Kampani said.
Both Imaan and Mungomo agree that podcasting in Malawi is on an upward trajectory. As internet access expands and digital literacy improves, they foresee a more structured, sustainable industry, with opportunities for advertising, sponsorships and collaboration among creators.
“Podcasting will play a major role in how young Malawians consume ideas and culture. It offers a level of authenticity and accessibility that aligns perfectly with global media trends,” Mungomo.
For Imaan the vision is clear.
“A Malawian podcast can be professional, impactful and powerful enough to elevate every kind of voice from the artist in Chilobwe to the innovator in Silicon Valley,”
As Malawis podcasting community continues to grow, one thing is certain: the microphone has been passed to a new generation of storytellers unafraid to speak their truth, one episode at a time.
