Daily Maverick's Maverick Life newsletter reflects on 2025 by featuring standout podcasts, shows, and music that addressed South Africa's key issues and celebrated local talent. The selection covers topics from urban leadership challenges to cultural exchanges, providing a snapshot of the year's audio highlights.
Published on December 29, 2025, the Daily Maverick article emphasizes the value of pausing to engage with audio content amid a noisy world. It spotlights the Readiness Report, a weekly podcast hosted by Redi Tlhabi, which delved into major stories through in-depth discussions.
Key episodes included Tlhabi's examination of Johannesburg's unrealized potential as Southern Africa's economic hub, hampered by inadequate leadership. Another focused on the gambling sector reaching R1.5 trillion, revealing underlying tales of economic hardship and resilience. Tlhabi also interviewed Rebecca Davis on the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, probing allegations by senior police officer Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi since September 17.
Further, Cas Coovadia discussed the B20 summit's achievements and obstacles to funding a fair energy shift in developing economies. On Power Chat, former Finance Minister Trevor Manuel advocated for innovative debt relief measures for Africa with Ferial Haffajee.
Social media expert Emma Sadleir highlighted the rise of digital gender-based violence in a nation grappling with widespread GBV. A story profiled Ruby, a 30-year-old Zimbabwean mother migrating to the UK as a caregiver for her family's future.
Musically, the newsletter praised Ladysmith Black Mambazo's 56th-year collaboration with Nduduzo Makhathini and Mbuso Khoza, soprano Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha's international acclaim, and saxophonist Ivan Mazuze's album Penuka, showcasing African cultural influences worldwide.
