LONDON: A podcast episode by Thmanyah, which means “eight” in Arabic, has shattered records, becoming the most-viewed podcast episode on YouTube.
The milestone was officially recognized by Guinness World Records on Tuesday after the episode, titled “Secrets to Thriving Relationships,” amassed an astounding 113 million views, surpassing all other podcasts on the platform.
Thmanyah’s episode, first released in November 2022, eclipsed the previous record held by Joe Rogan’s famous interview with Elon Musk, which garnered 68 million views over five years.
“Secrets to Thriving Relationships” aimed to explore various aspects of relationships and offer practical advice. Its relatable topics, which included discussions on toxic relationships, bullying, and conflict resolution, resonated deeply with viewers, quickly propelling it to viral status.
The episode’s straightforward and accessible approach to complex issues was praised by Guinness World Records, which described it as having a “direct, no-nonsense approach” that made the “advice feel accessible, not academic.”
Guinness World Records also noted the episode’s widespread appeal, with 74 percent of viewers tuning in from outside Saudi Arabia and 21 percent opting to watch with English subtitles. The episode’s success, they said, “demonstrates how expert-led guidance presented conversationally can transcend language barriers.”
The episode features Yasser Al-Hazimi, a prominent relationship coach in the region, whose insights on self-awareness and communication struck a universal chord, addressing the fundamental human desires to be understood, grow, and connect deeply with others.
Despite its current success, Thmanyah’s journey was not an overnight triumph. Founded in Saudi Arabia in 2016, Thmanyah has steadily grown into the largest podcast network in the Arab world, producing several highly rated shows, including “Fnjan,” an Arabic talk show with a monthly average of more than 1.6 million listeners, as well as “Swalif Business,” “Socrates,” and “Things That Changed Us.”
Initially focused on transforming Arabic journalism by producing diverse, high-quality content and documentaries, Thmanyah’s persistence and innovation have paid off, making it a powerhouse in the podcasting world.
In July 2021, the Saudi Research and Media Group, which owns more than 30 major media outlets including Asharq Al-Awsat, Asharq News, and Arab News, acquired a 51 percent controlling stake in Thmanyah, further solidifying its position as a leading Arabic podcast platform.
