With the closing down of most regional radio stations and the proliferation of content available to listeners on streaming platforms podcasts are the next big thing in media. In this blog we discuss why they are so popular and why you should start one.
Photo Credit: Jonathan Farber
A podcast is a series of digital audio or video programmes available for you to stream or download ‘on-demand’ where you choose when and where you listen to content. Podcasts differ from radio in a few key ways, mainly around control, accessibility, and style. Listeners have the flexibility to listen whenever suits them. There is also greater listener control i.e. just like Netflix you can pause, rewind, and binge. Podcast content tends to be more niche and diverse when compared to traditional media such as radio. Podcasts formats typically fall into one of the following categories interviews, storytelling, panel or solo.
Podcasts are growing in popularity for many reasons for example you can listen or watch at your own convenience. There’s also a great relationship between the listener and the podcaster which feels more personal and intimate. It’s generally much cheaper to access podcasts with the majority of them being free to tune into.
Podcasts fulfil many purposes offering listeners the opportunity to learn and self-develop, be entertained, provide companionship as well as being exposed to different perspectives. There are lots of different categories for podcasts such as educational, true crime and comedy. Our MD Kiesha Humphreys has launched her own podcast called ‘Out Loud At Last’ discussing Women’s Health and Wellbeing. On her podcast she discusses everything from her experiences with maternal mental health, hair loss and her next episode ‘Paws for Thought’ will be covering the link between dog ownership and good mental health. All episodes can be found on YouTube and Spotify amongst other streaming platforms.
Podcasts work well for producers for many reasons such as promoting a service or offer, to build a personal brand, in you serve an unusual group or if you’re looking to position yourself as a specialist in a particular market. Whatever your interests there’s bound to be a podcast to suit your tastes. Take a look online and start listening today.