StartUp Soko is the #1 podcast in Kenya discussing Startups.
1:01:131.1K views · 3mo ago · 1:01:13
In this episode, we explore one of the biggest questions facing Kenya's democracy: do elections revolve around policy, or are they still largely driven by tribal identity? As social media, AI, and digital platforms become more influential, we ask whether technology is changing mindsor simply making existing political loyalties louder and more visible.
54:399.8K views · 3mo ago · 54:39
Is every tech job still worth pursuing in 2026? Not necessarily. In this episode, we break down the tech roles that are becoming oversaturated, being reshaped by AI, or offering fewer opportunities than many people expect. We also discuss how the job market is changing, what skills employers are looking for, and how to future-proof your career.
56:575.9K views · 5mo ago · 56:57
In this episode, we unpack the difficult questions facing Africa’s tech ecosystem right now. For years, African startups were sold as the next big opportunity. Kenya was seen as one of the continent’s leading innovation hubs, funding was flowing, founders were building, and the future looked exciting.
5:243K views · 10mo ago · 5:24
In this episode, we break down the growing wave of boardroom wars, lawsuits, and founder fallout happening across Africa’s tech ecosystem. From founders being pushed out of the very companies they built, to discrimination claims and high-stakes legal battles, we unpack what’s really going on behind closed doors.
17:2611K views · 10mo ago · 17:26
Africa’s tech ecosystem is facing turbulence, and startups are feeling the pressure. From Paystack’s controversial co-founder to Little Cab facing multi-million shilling lawsuits, and Twiga Foods struggling to stay afloat, this episode of Startup Soko breaks down the biggest stories shaking African tech over the past few months.
1:36:287.7K views · 1y ago · 1:36:28
Impact funding came with good vibes and big promises — but somewhere along the way, it started doing more harm than good. This episode breaks down how white money, donor culture, and VC tourism are quietly choking real innovation in the African startup scene.
13:0924K views · 1y ago · 13:09
Everyone talks about how accelerators and incubators help startups — but what if they’re actually the biggest beneficiaries of the system? In this episode, we unpack the not-so-sexy side of the startup ecosystem: where the VC money really goes, who’s taking the lion’s share, and why some founders are just picking up the crumbs. If you’ve ever joined an accelerator, applied to one, or questioned why you’re still bootstrapping after “support,” this one's for you.
10:5818K views · 1y ago · 10:58
The first quarter of 2025 has been a tough one for Kenya’s tech ecosystem. From high-profile layoffs to startups entering administration or shutting down entirely, the landscape is shifting fast — and not always for the better. In this Q1 roundup, we break down the key events, emerging patterns, and what they signal for the future of the startup space in East Africa.
39:252.3K views · 1y ago · 39:25
On this episode of FishTank, we dive into the world of mental health — and meet a founder who built an AI chatbot to give Gen Z better access to support. The judges weren’t completely sold (except maybe Wangari, who saw a glimmer of hope). Is AI the future of therapy, or are we taking it too far? Let us know what you think! Visit Therabot here
27:281.9K views · 1y ago · 27:28
In this episode of Fish Tank, we meet a founder who’s turned his chemistry background into a functioning, revenue-generating business. With a clear track record of traction, he’s now asking for KES 26 million in exchange for 30% equity. But while the science is sound and the business is real, the panel digs into a bold part of his growth strategy: giving away a portion of his products to underserved communities.
23:101.3K views · 1y ago · 23:10
On this episode of Fish Tank, the founder of Abili Life presents their "super app"—a platform designed to make life easier for people with disabilities by aggregating essential digital services into one place. However, our panelists weren’t convinced. They questioned whether the problem was significant enough to justify creating an app.
9:0982K views · 1y ago · 9:09
An analysis of data gathered by the Startup Soko team reveals a stark difference in the funding received by startups led by local founders versus those led by expatriates or foreign founders. The disparity raises important questions about biases within Kenya’s tech ecosystem—who gets funded, why, and what systemic issues may be at play.
10:182.1K views · 1y ago · 10:18
Do your favorite products truly live up to their “eco-friendly” claims? Many brands use greenwashing tactics—misleading consumers with labels like “natural,” “sustainable,” or “environmentally friendly” while doing little to support the planet.
1:04:291K views · 1y ago · 1:04:29
In this Fishtank Series episode, we explore how one founder is tapping into the global demand for Swahili! With over 200 million speakers and growing cultural influence, Swahili is gaining traction far beyond East Africa. This founder shares their vision to make learning Swahili accessible worldwide—for travel, business, and cultural connections.
15:30100K views · 1y ago · 15:30
"Behind every great startup success story are countless failures no one talks about. In this episode, we dive into Kenya’s most shocking startup collapses—unpacking the bold ideas, big ambitions, and costly mistakes that led to their downfall. What went wrong, and what can future entrepreneurs learn? Watch now to uncover the harsh truths of the startup world!"
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