As someone who works in the podcast industry, I have noticed their increasing popularity. As of January 2024, there are over 4.3 million podcasts, and that number is increasing daily. I think it’s safe to say that this isn’t a trend but it is in fact the future of digital marketing, communication and entertainment

Later on in this blog post, I’ll be explaining why although that number sounds high, there’s still room for you to start your podcast today and see great success with it.

So why do people love podcasts?

1. Podcasts are accessible and convenient

Podcasts can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Everybody and their mum has a smartphone, a tablet or a computer which means they can access Spotify, Apple and many other listening platforms. Listeners are able to choose when and where they want to engage with their favorite podcasts. Whether you’re commuting, exercising (this is my favorite way lately), cooking, tidying up the home or just relaxing, you can tune in to your favorite show and get lost in the storytelling. When the episode is good, time goes fast. I particularly like popping on an episode when I’m doing a less than desirable chore…like cleaning

2. It’s an everything medium

Anyone with a microphone and an idea can start a podcast. Anyone can share their thoughts and stories with the world. This means that there is a podcast for everything. I came across a podcast the other day called ‘Stuff The British Stole’. I haven’t listened to it yet but fully intend to. 

Whether you are interested in true crime, personal development, history, technology, or comedy, I guarantee there is a podcast out there perfectly tailored to your needs and preferences. 

This lack of shortage in niches also allows the podcast host a unique opportunity to foster a sense of belonging and community for listeners.

3. You get to authentically create community

This is my favorite advantage of podcasting. Unlike any other form of media, podcasts offer a unique level of intimacy and authenticity. When you listen to a podcast, you hear the unfiltered voice of the host and guest, and that creates a sense of personal connection. This conversation nature allows for in-depth discussions and ideas that can be difficult to achieve in other mediums. There’s also something to be said about the absence of visual distractions – this encourages listeners to focus solely on the voice, the spoken word which in turn fosters a deeper understanding and engagement with the content being delivered. 

Podcasts are a great platform to use as a marketing tool for your business because of this very reason. With a strategy, you can start to turn listeners into paying clients.

5. Creators are not so limited by the platform

Unlike many of the other creative platforms, podcasting offers creators a unique opportunity to monetize their work while retaining creative freedom. Through sponsorships, ads and crowdfunding platforms, podcasters can generate revenue and sustain their shows independently. This means that we get to hear more diverse voices and perspectives. This means that we get to enjoy high-quality, must-be-said content.

6. Podcasts are educational and informative

I touched on this earlier but podcasts hold a wealth of knowledge. From educational shows that are specific to history, literature, to expert shows that share insights into various fields, podcasts have become the number 1 go to for both personal and professional growth. When I want to learn about something, podcasts are the first place I’ll look. People are expanding their knowledge and staying informed about their areas of interest through podcasts.

Remember how at the start of this post, I shared that even though there are 4.3 million podcasts, there is room for you…

If you compare that number to the 600 million blogs, you can see that this is still a relatively untapped market.

Additionally, this might or might not surprise you but not all podcasts are actively publishing episodes.That means, if all you ever do is stay consistent, you’re already on route to success. 

One last stat for you – 59% more time is spent listening to podcasts than using social media!

This means that with the right strategy, you can tap into a global audience and expand your reach far beyond any other marketing channels. 

Podcasting is the future.

Listen, your unique voice is able to inspire, educate and influence. Starting a podcast today means you are unlocking an incredible opportunity to share your story, establish thought leadership, build a beautiful community and amplify your reach! It’s time to stop playing small.

Grab a mic, press record and let the world hear what you’ve got to say!