Democracy Unplugged brings together thought leaders, activists and influencers to untangle the threads of democratic principles, dissect current challenges, and envision what our future could look like. Join the conversation as our panels delve into current affairs, political dynamics and social issues.
Power behind closed doors - TJ Masilela on South African politics
What really happens behind the scenes in South African
politics? And how much of what we see is politics as usual, and how much
is political performance? Phumi Mashigo sits down with TJ Masilela, host
of Palatable Politics, to unpack the inner workings of political
parties, democracy and the responsibility that comes with political
membership. TJ also tackles a difficult question: if the ANC is far from
ideal, why does he believe there is no other alternative? This is a
conversation that invites you to look beyond the performance and think
more deeply about the politics that shapes our lives.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests and panellists do not necessarily reflect those of Podcast Party. Podcast Party encourages open dialogue and diverse perspectives and does not endorse any political party, candidate or viewpoint.
22 Oct 2026
Power, Promises & the People - Local Government Elections 2026
As South Africa heads towards the 2026 local government elections, Siya Sangweni brings political parties in Cape Town together for one last, important conversation before voters head to the polls.
What are they promising voters, and what will those promises mean for your everyday life?
Featuring Afrika Mayibuye Movement’s Apostle Musa Joshua Mohlala, Build One South Africa’s Kerryn Rehse, the African National Congress’s Khalid Sayed, and GOOD Party’s Brett Herron.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests and panellists do not necessarily reflect those of Podcast Party. Podcast Party encourages open dialogue and diverse perspectives and does not endorse any political party, candidate or viewpoint.
15 Oct 2026
How do the numbers impact your vote? Decoding the upcoming elections
What do the numbers tell us about Johannesburg’s local elections? Political and economic analyst Paul Berkowitz joins Phumi Mashigo to unpack the data behind the upcoming local elections. Together they explore what the numbers could mean for Johannesburg, and beyond, and whether they tell the full story of what voters can expect. With so many parties competing for power, what should voters be looking at beyond the party name on the ballot? Hear more about that in this conversation.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests and panellists do not necessarily reflect those of Podcast Party. Podcast Party encourages open dialogue and diverse perspectives and does not endorse any political party, candidate or viewpoint.
Who has been a guest on The Burning Platform
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Solly Moeng
Elaaheh Jamali
Nhlanhla Ndlovu
Ernst van Zyl
Jonathan Witt
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
927,141
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.5 / 5
8 ratings
Spotify
4.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 81 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
97
Social presence
0
YouTube
93
Engagement
67
Contact The Burning Platform
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about The Burning Platform
Who hosts The Burning Platform?
Phumi Mashigo host the show. Published by Podcast Party.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes weekly, based on its RSS feed.
Does The Burning Platform take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
Host of The Burning Platform?
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