Podcasting Is Growing For A Reason — Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Miss Out On This Growth

Podcasting has been on the rise for years, and its popularity only accelerated during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, this medium existed long before the global health crisis. It responded to the evolving needs of younger audiences who sought content that could be consumed on their own time, and not just through traditional radio.

As of now, there are over 400 million podcast listeners worldwide, and the number of independent podcasts has surpassed 2 million. With such vast reach, podcasts are reshaping how people consume information and entertainment. This shift is especially noticeable in the United States, home to over 100 million podcast listeners.

Why Podcasting Continues to Grow

In the past decade, podcasting has evolved from a niche medium to a mainstream one. Nearly 80% of Americans over the age of 12 are now aware of podcasts, marking a 30% increase in awareness from just 10 years ago. This change is profound, considering that as recently as 2015, podcasts were still considered a fringe format.

A significant reason for podcasting’s rise is its accessibility. Unlike radio, which is often limited to scheduled programming, podcasts can be consumed whenever and wherever listeners choose. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home, podcasts provide content on demand.

This growth is mirrored in the experience of many producers, including Jon Robert Quinn, a seasoned radio producer with over 25 years of experience. Jon has produced radio shows in Seattle, Denver, Miami, and Sacramento, and through his work, he’s seen firsthand how the podcasting landscape has expanded and evolved.

Podcasting as a Platform for Thought Leadership

Podcasting allows creators to dive deeper into topics, offering long-form content that engages listeners in ways traditional media cannot. Unlike other formats, podcast listeners tend to engage more deeply, often listening for extended periods, which makes podcasting an ideal medium for thought leadership.

For example, Nancy Marshall, the CEO of Marshall Communications, has produced over 220 episodes of The PR Maven Podcast, discussing public relations, marketing, and personal branding. Through her podcast, Marshall has been able to share her expertise with a wide range of listeners, from her local community to international audiences.

Podcasting provides a unique platform for individuals to have meaningful conversations with experts, influencers, and thought leaders across various industries. Whether it’s a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt or a CEO from a global corporation, podcasts are a space where knowledge and insights can be shared with an engaged, curious audience.

The Appeal of Podcasting for YouTubers

Many creators, particularly those on YouTube, are now turning to podcasting as an additional platform to engage their audience. The reasons for this transition are straightforward:

1. Discoverability: Podcasting offers creators the ability to turn a single piece of content into multiple segments, which can be shared across social platforms. This increases discoverability and attracts new listeners to the show.

2. Free Exposure: YouTube’s algorithm rewards creators who upload consistently. By repurposing podcast content into smaller video segments, creators can gain exposure and increase their visibility, making it easier for new viewers to discover their content.

3. Deeper Connection with Audiences: Podcasting allows creators to build stronger relationships with their audience. Long-form content fosters a deeper connection, giving listeners the chance to spend more time with their favorite creators. As a result, podcast listeners are more likely to trust the creator and engage with their content over time.

Podcasting as a Relationship-Building Tool

At its core, podcasting is about building relationships. It provides an opportunity for creators to connect with their audience, their guests, and even the media in a more personal and meaningful way. Through interviews, discussions, and deep dives into topics, podcasters can foster trust and strengthen bonds with their listeners.

Jon Robert Quinn, for instance, uses his podcast to nurture relationships with clients and media members alike. By interviewing key figures, Quinn is able to build professional relationships that go beyond the press release — creating valuable connections that benefit both his podcast and his business.

For podcast creators, this is crucial: the stronger the connection with listeners, the more likely the podcast will grow in popularity. Podcasting is a relationship business, and the best podcasters know how to cultivate trust, share insights, and build an audience that feels personally connected to their content.

The Future of Podcasting: A Growth Industry

With podcasting continuing to grow, there’s still plenty of untapped potential. The demand for fresh, informative, and entertaining content is higher than ever, and podcasting provides a platform for creators to meet that demand.

Podcasts like The Joe Rogan Experience and Pod Save America have garnered millions of listeners, and these success stories show that podcasting can have global reach. However, it’s not just the biggest names that find success. Smaller, niche podcasts also thrive by building loyal, engaged audiences around specific topics or industries.

As podcasting continues to grow, there is an increasing opportunity for creators to step into the space and make their mark. Whether you’re looking to share expertise, tell stories, or explore niche topics, podcasting can provide a valuable platform to reach your audience.

Sacramento Broadcasting: Your Partner in Podcast Production

For those looking to get into podcasting, Sacramento Broadcasting offers expert production services to help you create professional, high-quality content. With Jon Robert Quinn’s 25 years of experience, Sacramento Broadcasting provides everything from audio-only productions in the Sacramento location to video podcasting in the Folsom facility. With top-tier equipment, a team of experts, and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in the podcasting world, Sacramento Broadcasting is the go-to studio for podcasters in the region.

If you’re considering starting a podcast or elevating your current content, don’t miss out on this growth opportunity. Whether you’re based in Antelope, Carmichael, Citrus Heights, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, Granite Bay, Lincoln, North Highlands, Rocklin, Roseville, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Rancho Cordova, Fair Oaks, or Folsom, Sacramento Broadcasting is ready to help you create impactful podcasts that resonate with your audience.