Podcast Insider

Recap: 2025 Podcasting in the News

 What’s Happening in Podcasting: 2025 Highlights • The Growing Market & Shifts in Listener Behavior Podcast audience numbers continue climbing: in 2025, over 584 million people listened to podcasts globally, and consumption habits are shifting. Riverside At the same time, more creators are embracing video podcasts — blending traditional audio with video content, to meet changing listener expectations and platform algorithms. EMARKETER+1 The industry forecast remains strong: some estimates project the North American podcast market will expand significantly over the next decade. Yahoo Finance+1 • Business & Monetization Trends As competition grows, creators and podcast networks are exploring different monetization strategies — from subscriptions and listener support, to sponsorships and multi-format distribution. TechWyse Internet Marketing+1 But 2025 hasn’t been smooth for everyone: Wondery — once among the leading podcast studios — underwent major restructuring, with layoffs and integration into broader corporate content teams. The Verge • Recognition & Cultural Shifts for Podcasts For the first time ever, Golden Globe Awards introduced a “Best Podcast” category, acknowledging podcasts’ growing influence and mainstream cultural relevance. EW.com+1 The move signals a broader shift: podcasts are no longer a fringe medium, but a respected form of entertainment and storytelling on par with film and TV. • Platform Moves & Discovery Changes Spotify introduced new podcast-discovery features this year to boost podcasts’ visibility — a sign of how platforms continue to fight for listener attention. TechCrunch Meanwhile, Apple Podcasts dropped its 2025 “Top Charts” and “Top New Shows” lists — giving creators and listeners a fresh look at what’s trending globally and locally. Apple+1 🎯 What This Means for Independent Creators Visibility matters even more. With major platforms pushing discovery tools and new formats, it’s more important than ever to optimize for search, video distribution, and discoverability. Flexibility is key. As more listeners embrace video or multi-format podcasts, creators who adapt — for example, offering both audio and video versions — may gain a competitive advantage, but that isn’t guaranteed; audio is still special and leading. Diversified monetization can increase resilience. Audiences are expanding, but ad markets and studio budgets are shifting. Relying solely on traditional ad revenue is riskier than ever. Quality and consistency still win. Even with all the noise, creators who deliver regular, high-value content — whether audio, video, or both — remain relevant. Recognition for long-form storytellers and niche creators is growing. With podcasts entering award shows and mainstream entertainment conversations, creators have new opportunities to be discovered and validated beyond listener counts. Our favorite shows of 2025: Mike  Midlife Pilot Experience Dave Worlds Beyond Number MacKenzie  Song Exploder The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call for a tech checkup with Mike. mike@blubrry.com

Experimenting With Your Show Format Without Losing Listeners – PCI 465

Change can be scary — especially when your podcast format is “working well enough.” But doing the exact same thing every week can lead to burnout, stale content, and flat growth. In this episode of Podcast Insider, Mike and Dave dig into how to experiment with your show format without confusing your audience, tanking downloads, or losing the core of what makes your show work. Whether you’re thinking about shorter episodes, new segments, rotating co-hosts, or even a full refresh down the road, this conversation walks through how to test changes in a thoughtful, data-informed way over time. Today’s Hosts: Dave Clements and Mike Dell Why Even Good Shows Need Format Experiments If your show is “fine,” it can be tempting to leave it alone forever. But small experiments can: Keep you excited and creative as a host Help new listeners understand your show faster Make the content easier to binge and share Reveal what parts of your format actually matter to listeners Common worries podcasters have: “If I change anything, people will unsubscribe.” “My audience expects this exact structure.” “I don’t have time to reinvent everything.” Breaking down the difference between: Tweaks (small adjustments, low risk) Experiments (intentional tests with a goal) Overhauls (big changes that need more planning) 💡 Blubrry helps: Use your Blubrry stats to compare performance before and after changes—episode downloads, trends over a few weeks, and listener behavior over time. Low-Risk Ways to Experiment With Your Format You don’t have to flip your show upside down to “try something new.” Mike and Dave walk through small, manageable experiments you can test over a few episodes: Structure Experiments Move your main topic earlier so listeners get to the “good stuff” faster Add a short recurring segment (news, wins, Q&A, recommendations) Group related topics into a mini-series within your feed Length & Pacing Experiments Try a shorter, punchier episode every few weeks Alternate between deep-dive episodes and quick tips Tighten long intros or outros to get into the content sooner Format Variations Rotate between solo, co-hosted, and interview episodes Test a “mailbag” or “listener questions” format occasionally Try themed episodes (case studies, breakdowns, live coaching, etc.) They also talk about running experiments in “seasons” or short runs so changes feel intentional, not random. 💡 Blubrry helps: Tag your episodes clearly in titles and descriptions (e.g., “Quick Tip,” “Deep Dive,” “Listener Q&A”) so you can see which experiment types attract more plays over time. Bringing Your Audience Along for the Ride Listeners are usually more flexible than podcasters think—as long as they’re not surprised in a bad way. Communicate changes without sounding unsure or apologetic: Explain why you’re trying something new: “We want to get to the main topic faster.” “We’re testing shorter episodes for busy listeners.” Set expectations and limits: “We’re experimenting with this format for the next 3–4 episodes.” Invite feedback directly: Ask for emails, social DMs, or voicemails Run a simple listener poll or survey The power of framing: Position changes as a perk (“We’re giving you more X”) Make listeners feel included (“You’re helping shape how this show evolves.”) 💡 Blubrry helps: Link to your contact page, newsletter, or survey using Quicklinks so listeners always have an easy, one-click way to respond. What to Track When You Change Your Format Experimenting without paying attention to results is just guessing. We break down what to watch once you start testing new ideas: Core metrics: Overall downloads per episode over a few weeks Trends (Is it steady, slightly up, or noticeably down?) Are new format episodes in line with your usual performance? Engagement signals: Do you see more replies, reviews, or social shares? Are listeners mentioning specific segments or changes they liked? Do people reference the new format when they reach out? Patterns over time: Are certain experiment types performing consistently better? Did a change cause confusion (e.g., more “what is this?” feedback)? Don’t panic over one “weird” episode—look at patterns, not outliers. 💡 Blubrry helps: Use episode comparison tools and long-term stats trends to see how format changes affect performance across multiple episodes, not just one. Knowing When to Roll Back vs. Commit Not every experiment will be a hit—and that’s okay. Roll it back if: You’re getting clear negative feedback you can’t ignore Downloads are dropping significantly and staying down The new format is burning you out more than before Tweak and keep testing if: Feedback is mixed but curious (“I like this, but…”) Performance is similar, but the show feels better to make You see signs of new engagement from your core audience Fully commit if: Your audience responds positively and consistently The show feels easier or more fun to produce The format fits better with your long-term goals Tell listeners when something worked: “You all loved this new segment, so we’re making it a regular thing.” Listener Takeaway Experimenting with your format doesn’t mean starting from scratch—it means refining what already works and letting go of what doesn’t. When you: Change one thing at a time Communicate clearly Watch your data and listen to feedback …you can evolve your show in a way that feels natural for both you and your listeners. The best place for all Blubrry support is our ticket system. A ticket gives the whole team access vs. direct emails and calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call for a tech checkup with Mike (mike@blubrry.com).

The Rise of Niche Podcasts: Why Smaller Can Be Stronger – PCI 464

Big audiences get the spotlight — but passionate, niche communities are where podcast success quietly thrives. In this episode of Podcast Insider, we dive into why smaller-focused shows are often more engaged, more loyal, and more profitable than broad, mass-appeal podcasts. Whether your show is about vintage guitars, homeschooling twins, paranormal tourism, or the science of sleep — the beauty of podcasting is that there’s a niche for everything. We’ll explore how creators can grow strategically by going narrower, not broader. Today’s Hosts: Mike Dell & MacKenzie Bennett Why Niches Drive Stronger Communities When listeners feel like the show gets them, they become true fans. A niche focus leads to: More qualified listeners Deeper engagement and retention Better audience feedback and participation Fewer competitors in your space 💡 Blubrry helps: Our analytics tools show exactly which topics and episodes resonate most — so you can double down on content your niche loves. Monetizing Small But Mighty Audiences You don’t need millions of listeners to earn real revenue. Smart monetization strategies include: Affiliate products relevant to your niche Community memberships or fan-supported models Partnerships with small brands who serve your audience Premium content for true fans The goal? High-value conversations with a clearly defined audience. 💡 Blubrry helps: With Podcasting 2.0 features like Value4Value and subscriptions (via compatible integrations), monetizing loyal listeners is easier than ever. Marketing a Niche Podcast: Go Where They Are Instead of trying to reach everyone, reach your people. Try: Joining and participating in niche online communities Creating shareable micro-clips or visuals tailored to your topic Collaborating with aligned podcasts in your niche Optimizing episode titles for specific search intent Small ponds = easier to become the big fish. 💡 Blubrry helps: Use Quicklinks to give new listeners a simple way to subscribe everywhere your show is available. Listener Takeaway If your show feels “too small,” that might be your superpower. When you speak directly to a specific group, your podcast becomes indispensable — and that’s what leads to lasting growth. The best place for all Blubrry support is our ticket system. A ticket gives the whole team access vs. direct emails and calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call for a tech checkup with Mike (mike@blubrry.com).

Podcasting for a Cause: Using Your Show for Awareness or Advocacy – PCI 463

Podcasting isn’t just about entertainment — it’s a platform for change. Whether you’re raising awareness for an important issue, advocating for a marginalized community, or championing a nonprofit mission, a podcast can amplify voices and create real-world impact. In this episode of Podcast Insider, we explore how creators can responsibly, authentically, and effectively use their shows to inspire action. From storytelling that sparks empathy to partnerships that fuel momentum, your mic can be a catalyst for something bigger. Today’s Hosts: Dave Clements and MacKenzie Bennett Why Podcasting Works for Advocacy Podcasts build trust — and trust leads to action. Advocacy-driven shows succeed because they: Create space for personal stories and deeper context Give underrepresented voices a platform Encourage ongoing conversation and education Convert listeners into supporters and volunteers 💡 Blubrry helps: Our detailed stats help you understand whether your message is reaching — and resonating with — the right audience. Best Practices for Responsible Storytelling With purpose comes responsibility. Tips for telling stories ethically: Prioritize consent and accuracy Avoid trauma exploitation or sensationalism Center the people and communities affected Follow up with resources and actionable next steps 💡 Blubrry helps: Use show notes and episode descriptions to provide clear links to important resources and organizations your listeners can support. Partnerships That Amplify Impact You don’t have to lift the mission alone. Strengthen advocacy by: Working with nonprofit organizations Featuring subject-matter experts Creating campaigns aligned with awareness days/months Encouraging listeners to share the message Even small efforts can lead to collective momentum. 💡 Blubrry helps: Quicklinks makes it simple to share subscription options and calls-to-action across every channel — so supporters can spread the word faster. Listener Takeaway Podcasting is personal — and that’s what makes it powerful. When you speak up for something that matters, you can inspire your community to take action, learn more, and make a difference. 🔗 Resources & Tools Blubrry Hosting + Statistics Quicklinks for sharing and engagement Podcasting 2.0 value-driven features Find episode extras and past shows at podcastinsider.com. And if you’re ready to grow a mission-driven podcast, visit blubrry.com — we’re here to support you every step of the way. 🎧 Keep advocating. Keep storytelling. Keep making an impact. The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook Group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call for a tech checkup with Mike (mike@blubrry.com).

Going Global: How to Reach Listeners Outside Your Home Country – PCI 462

Podcasting connects people everywhere — and chances are, you already have listeners tuning in from around the world. Whether it’s Canada, the UK, India, or beyond, international audiences bring new perspectives and opportunities for growth. In this episode, Dave Clements and Mike Dell talk about how to expand your reach beyond your home country, understand your international audience data, and make your podcast more accessible — no matter where your listeners are tuning in from. Today’s Hosts: Dave Clements and Mike Dell How to Reach Podcast Listeners All Over the Globe Why Think Global? Expanding your reach can help your show grow faster and feel more connected: Attract listeners from different cultures and regions Gain fresh ideas, guests, and perspectives Build community beyond borders Appeal to international sponsors and collaborations Blubrry helps: Our IAB-certified podcast statistics show listener data by country and metro area — so you can see exactly where your audience is growing and tailor your outreach accordingly. Make Your Show International-Friendly A few simple adjustments can help your content resonate worldwide: Avoid slang or cultural references that might not translate well Mention your location early on for context Include global or universally relatable topics Feature international guests or highlight other regions’ podcasting scenes Be mindful of time zones when scheduling live events or premieres Blubrry helps: With flexible publishing tools, you can schedule releases at times that work for multiple regions — keeping your show consistent and accessible no matter the listener’s location. Language & Accessibility: Transcripts Matter Accessibility is key to growing your global reach — and transcripts are a major part of that. Make your show easier to follow for non-native speakers Help search engines index your content in more languages Create opportunities for translated versions of your episodes Blubrry helps: Our Transcripts Add-On automatically generates accurate episode transcripts that can be easily translated — making your podcast discoverable and inclusive, even for audiences who don’t speak your language. Promoting Beyond Borders To reach and retain international listeners, try: Listing your show on global directories like Deezer (Europe), JioSavvn (India), Gaana (India) and Anghami (MENA countries) Using international podcast hashtags (#PodcastBrasil, #PodcasterIndia, #PodcastsUK) Sharing highlights or translated quotes on social media Collaborating with creators from other countries Blubrry helps: With Blubrry’s platform, you can easily update episode metadata, add transcripts, and ensure your show looks professional and discoverable worldwide. The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call for a tech checkup with Mike (mike@blubrry.com).