Why 2025 Was a Great Year for Podcast Listeners

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Hey, Podcasters! 

Have you ever tried to recommend a podcast to a friend and realized how many steps it took just to get them to the right episode? 

For a long time, trying to convert a listener felt like a lot of work. And as creators, we felt that friction too, even if we couldn’t always put our finger on it!

But this year, podcast apps started acting less like players and more like places built for listeners. And we're loving it! 

Finding new shows feels easier, sharing a great episode feels more natural, and listening itself feels smoother with fewer interruptions. 

Those changes matter more than they might seem! When listening is easier, people finish more episodes, come back more often, and are more likely to recommend what they love. 

In this Buzzcast episode, we zoom out and talk about why 2025 ended up being such a strong year for podcast listeners. From what app updates actually changed behavior to why this moment feels like a turning point for podcasting, this episode is worth your time! 

Listen to Buzzcast

Starting a Podcast in 2026? Apply for our Start Podcasting Cohort!

In January 2026, we’re running a free Start Podcasting Cohort to help new podcasters move from planning to publishing!

This guided, small-group experience is designed to reduce friction and help you launch your podcast with confidence.

If you’ve been meaning to start but haven’t hit publish yet, applications are open now! 

Apply to Cohort

Have a question for Megan? Send a text!

That's all for this week! Thanks for listening & keep podcasting!