Article Summary Box

💡 KEY INSIGHTS

  • Video Integration: Podcasters increasingly embrace video elements, with YouTube becoming a preferred platform for podcast consumption, indicating a significant shift towards visual storytelling in podcasting.
  • AI Utilization: A growing trend shows podcasters incorporating AI tools for tasks like editing, content generation, and SEO optimization, demonstrating a tech-savvy approach to enhancing podcast production and reach.
  • Diverse Content Expansion: The podcasting industry is witnessing the introduction of more specialized categories, like true crime subgenres and localized podcasts, pointing to a broader and more tailored listener experience.
  • Branded Podcasts Rise: An upsurge in branded podcasts is noted, with companies using the medium for storytelling and connecting with their audience, highlighting podcasts as a potent tool for brand engagement and marketing.
  • In the dynamic realm of podcasting, it's crucial to stay abreast of the evolving trends. Both established podcasters and those looking to enter the field should pay close attention to the latest movements within the podcast industry.

    By aligning your content and marketing approaches with these trends, you can not only maintain but also grow your listener base, opening new doors for opportunities.

    Therefore, if you're in the early stages of your podcast journey or already have a monthly audience, there are five key podcast trends in 2024 that you need to watch out for.

    Expert Panel Box

    Meet Our Experts

    Our team comprises industry-leading experts in fields ranging from design and marketing to growth strategies, each bringing a wealth of experience and unparalleled knowledge to the table.

    Vlad Shvets
    MarketSplash & Empact Partners Founder
    Shanal Govender
    MarketSplash Chief Editor
    Juxhina Malaj
    Inbound Growth Consultant
    Jini Reddy
    Operations & HR Manager
    Sharné McDonald
    Inbound Growth Consultant
    Vlad Shvets
    MarketSplash & Empact Partners Founder

    Vlad is a founder of MarketSplash and its parent company Empact Partners. Vlad is a serial entrepreneur & SaaS founder with 10+ years of experience in the tech industry. Vlad is deeply passionate about digital publishing, software, and growth marketing.

    Shanal Govender
    MarketSplash Chief Editor

    Shanal, the Chief Editor at MarketSplash has diverse experience in content strategy and digital publishing. Her skills extend to integrating AI tools, managing social media, and navigating affiliate partnerships, reflecting her deep passion for the tech and publishing sectors. She is passionate about writing, research, and innovative tools in the marketing niche.

    Juxhina Malaj
    Inbound Growth Consultant

    Juxhina is a content creator, editor, and researcher. She has an MSc degree in Communication Science from the University of Vienna and 10+ years of experience in the tech industry. She is passionate about startups, SEO marketing, content creation, art, and photography.

    Jini Reddy
    Operations & HR Manager

    Jini Reddy is an experienced professional who excels in Psychology, Project Management, Finance, and HR. Known for her excellent, conflict resolution and communication skills, she creates a positive, collaborative work environment at Empat Partners. She is skilled in balancing diverse organizational roles, while emphasizing operational efficiency and employee well-being.

    Sharné McDonald
    Inbound Growth Consultant

    Sharné is an artist, digital designer, researcher, and informal educator by training. She has 5+ years' experience in the SaaS industry as a Product Marketing Manager and Head of Customer Support. She supports a handful of remarkable SaaS brands in achieving sustainable business growth through targeted online content.

  • Trend 1: A Greater Lean Into Video
  • Trend 2: Greater Use Of AI Tools By Podcasters
  • Trend 3: More Additions To Categories
  • Trend 4: More Podcasters Will Embrace Content Repurposing
  • Trend 5: A Rise In Branded Podcasts
  • Trend 6: More Political/Nonfiction Content
  • Trend 7: A Tipping Point for Podcast Ads
  • Trend 8: More Podcasts In Pop Culture
  • Trend 9: A Rise In Live Podcasting Events
  • Trend 10: More Podcasts
  • FAQs
  • Future Insights
  • Trend 1: A Greater Lean Into Video

    The year 2024 marked a significant trend towards video podcasts. Last year's data clearly indicated YouTube surpassing other platforms as the preferred choice for podcast consumption.

    The majority of podcast listeners (90%) feel that adverts influence their purchasing decisions.

    This trend is anticipated to persist into the current year. Consequently, it's predicted that an increasing number of podcasters will incorporate video elements into their content.

    With YouTube's new feature allowing Creators to upload podcasts directly via RSS feeds, there's an expected shift towards a stronger emphasis on video in the podcasting world.

    Examples Of A Greater Lean Into Video:

    • Enhanced Visual Storytelling: Podcasts are integrating more visual elements like animations, relevant images, and video footage to accompany their audio content. This enriches the storytelling experience and engages the audience on a deeper level.
    • Live Streaming Episodes: Many podcasters are now live streaming their recording sessions, allowing viewers to see the behind-the-scenes aspects and engage in real-time through comments and reactions.
    • Incorporating Video Interviews: Instead of just audio, interviews are now often conducted over video calls, adding a visual dimension that allows the audience to see the interactions and expressions of the guests.
    • Video Clips on Social Media: Podcasters are using short video clips from their episodes as promotional material on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, attracting a broader audience.
    Creators Work on Couple of Podcast

    Flynn champions the transformative power of podcasting, emphasizing its unique ability to reach a global audience and share impactful messages.

    images

    The beauty of podcasting is that it allows you to share your voice and your message with a global audience.

    Pat Flynn

    Host of The Smart Passive Income Podcast.

    Source: LinkedIn

    His perspectives highlight the evolving landscape of digital communication, illustrating how podcasting can serve as a vital tool for personal expression and audience engagement.

    Flynn's deep understanding of the medium underscores its potential not just as a form of entertainment, but as a significant platform for education, storytelling, and community building in the digital age.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As podcasters embrace this trend, we can expect even more exciting and visually appealing content in the podcasting world, creating a richer and more immersive experience for listeners and viewers alike.

    Trend 2: Greater Use Of AI Tools By Podcasters

    In the past, podcasters often juggled multiple roles such as being a producer, host, editor, social media marketer, website developer, contact manager, advertising representative, and SEO expert.

    66% of podcasters have begun incorporating AI tools into their workflow.

    However, with the advent of AI technology, they can now delegate many of these responsibilities to artificial intelligence.

    Examples Of Greater Use Of AI Tools By Podcasters:

    • Automated Editing and Post-Production: AI tools can now efficiently handle tasks like noise reduction, leveling audio, and editing out pauses or mistakes, significantly reducing the time podcasters spend on post-production.
    • Content Generation and Script Writing: AI is being used to assist in generating content ideas, structuring narratives, and even helping with scriptwriting, which can streamline the creative process for podcasters.
    • Voice Enhancement and Synthesis: Advanced AI technologies can enhance voice clarity, modulate tone, and even synthesize realistic voices, offering podcasters options to create diverse audio content without needing additional voice talent.
    • SEO Optimization for Episodes: AI tools help in optimizing podcast titles, descriptions, and metadata for search engines, ensuring better discoverability and reach.
    Interactive Infographic

    AI Editing

    AI has revolutionized the episode editing process in podcasting. Automatic transcription, text-based editing, and AI-driven audio enhancement are now features available on various platforms, including Descript, Riverside, and Adobe.

    AI Production

    Several productions are experimenting with AI-created podcasts, where AI-generated voices 'narrate' content compiled by AI, such as recent news stories.

    AI Marketing

    The AI tool crafts posts using the automatically generated episode transcripts, streamlining the content creation process for you.

    Ferreira highlights a common challenge faced by podcasters: expanding their audience. He points out that with the advent of AI technology, podcasters have new, innovative tools at their disposal.

    images

    Podcasters struggle with growing their audience, but with the power of AI, we can now repurpose content and reach listeners on multiple platforms, spreading the word in new and innovative ways.

    Tiago Ferreira

    Host of Wannabe Entrepreneur Podcast

    Source: LinkedIn

    Ferreira's insights underscore the importance of embracing technological advancements in AI to stay ahead in the dynamic world of digital media, and to spread one's message in more creative and impactful ways.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As podcasters continue to embrace AI technologies, we can expect to see more innovative and data-driven approaches to podcast production, leading to enhanced content quality and a more tailored listening experience for audiences worldwide.

    Trend 3: More Additions To Categories

    As the podcasting industry expands and evolves, distinct subcategories are developing and gaining traction. Personally, I believe updating the current categories to reflect these changes would be beneficial.

    Podcast discovery is already challenging, and introducing new categories could greatly improve this aspect.

    Examples Of More Additions To Categories:

    • True Crime and Mystery Subgenres: Differentiating between various types of true crime podcasts, such as unsolved mysteries, cold cases, or forensic investigations.
    • Educational Podcasts by Subject: Categories like history, science, language learning, and technology, making it easier for listeners to find content in their specific area of interest.
    • Health and Wellness Niches: Breaking down this broad category into mental health, fitness, nutrition, and holistic wellness to cater to more specific audience interests.
    • Localized and Cultural Podcasts: Categories for podcasts focusing on local news, cultural discussions, and regional storytelling to appeal to specific geographic or cultural audiences.
    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As this trend continues to evolve, we can expect to see more personalized and meaningful content experiences across various platforms and industries.

    Trend 4: More Podcasters Will Embrace Content Repurposing

    Content repurposing is currently receiving the recognition it deserves, and rightly so.

    It's a highly effective strategy that enables content creators to utilize their existing materials to engage a wider audience. Essentially, it's about optimizing the output derived from your input.

    Examples Of More Podcasters Will Embrace Content Repurposing:

    • Video Clips for Social Media: Creating short video clips or GIFs from podcast episodes for sharing on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to attract a broader audience.
    • Blog Posts and Articles: Transcribing episodes into written content for blogs or online publications, reaching those who prefer reading over listening.
    • Infographics and Quote Images: Extracting key insights or quotes from episodes and turning them into visually appealing infographics or quote images for platforms like Pinterest and LinkedIn.
    • Email Newsletters: Including summaries, highlights, or interesting snippets from podcasts in email newsletters to engage subscribers and direct them to full episodes.
    Association with Cheap Products (%)
    Why Do People Podcast?

    Creators from various backgrounds are engaging in this practice, and we believe that 2024 will see a growing trend of podcasters increasingly adopting this approach as well.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As the podcasting landscape continues to evolve, we can expect to see more creative and innovative ways in which podcasters repurpose their valuable audio content into diverse formats, catering to a wider and more engaged audience.

    Trend 5: A Rise In Branded Podcasts

    We foresee an upsurge in branded podcasts in 2024. These are shows produced by brands, businesses, or companies, and there's been a notable increase in such podcasts recently. This trend is expected to persist as more brands recognize the value of having their own show.

    Branded podcasts are proving to be an exceptional marketing tool. They offer a unique opportunity for brands to establish a genuine connection between a host and the audience.

    This kind of engagement is invaluable for businesses, as it fosters a direct and personal link with their brand through the medium of a podcast.

    Examples Of A Rise In Branded Podcasts:

    • Industry Leaders Sharing Expertise: Major companies in various sectors launching podcasts to share industry insights, trends, and thought leadership, enhancing their brand authority.
    • Product-Focused Series: Brands creating podcast series that delve into the stories behind their products, the technology used, or the people behind the scenes, offering a deeper connection with their products.
    • Behind-the-Scenes Content: Businesses providing a glimpse into their company culture, processes, and values through podcasts, building brand loyalty and transparency.
    • Customer Storytelling: Brands inviting customers to share their experiences and stories related to the brand’s products or services, creating relatable content that resonates with listeners.

    When brands successfully identify a unique perspective and specialized niche for their podcast, it becomes an excellent tool for cultivating an enthusiastic and engaged community centered around their brand.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As this trend continues to grow, we can expect to see more innovative and creative branded podcast content that resonates with audiences and strengthens the connection between brands and their consumers.

    Trend 6: More Political/Nonfiction Content

    We expect an increase in nonfiction and political material this year. 2024 is a significant election year for many countries, making it a pivotal time politically.

    In 2024, over 2 billion people are expected to participate in major elections across 50 countries, marking a substantial global political event.

    The demographics of podcast listeners align closely with those of voters and individuals actively involved in civic matters. Furthermore, podcast listeners have expressed that they turn to podcasts for "edu-tainment" – they seek to stay informed about global events in a format that is both educational and engaging.

    Examples Of More Political/Nonfiction Content:

    • Election Coverage and Analysis: Podcasts dedicated to in-depth coverage of local, national, and international elections, including analyses, candidate profiles, and policy discussions.
    • Political Commentary and Opinions: Shows featuring expert commentary and diverse opinions on current political events, policies, and government decisions.
    • Historical Political Events: Podcasts that delve into significant historical political events, providing context and insights into how they shape current affairs.
    • Civic Education and Awareness: Programs aimed at educating listeners about civic responsibilities, the functioning of government systems, and encouraging civic engagement.
    • Investigative Journalism: In-depth investigative series that uncover and report on political scandals, corruption, or significant issues in governance.
    Interactive Infographic

    68%

    of podcast listeners will finish all the episodes they downloaded for offline play.

    70%

    of podcast fans listen to an episode while doing housework.

    79%

    of the American population is aware of podcasting and what it entails.

    In essence, during a significant election year, it's expected that podcast audiences will show a keen interest in listening to and gaining insights on topics related to politics.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As this trend continues to gain momentum, we can expect to see a diverse range of political and nonfiction content across various media formats that informs, challenges, and inspires audiences to engage with the world's most pressing issues.

    Trend 7: A Tipping Point for Podcast Ads

    This podcast prediction has a dual aspect. On one hand, we foresee that podcast advertising will remain an excellent method for podcasters to generate revenue from their shows. All indicators suggest that this positive trend will persist.

    It is projected that by 2024, the revenue generated from podcast advertising will reach approximately $4.02 billion.

    This development is fantastic for the podcasting industry as a whole. However, podcasters must be strategic and cautious about how they incorporate ads into their content, as there are potential risks to consider.

    Examples Of A Tipping Point for Podcast Ads:

    • Ad Overload: The risk of inserting too many ads, which can lead to listener fatigue and a potential drop in audience engagement or even loss of listeners.
    • Intrusive Placement: Poorly timed ad placements that interrupt the flow of content, potentially irritating listeners and detracting from the overall listening experience.
    • Irrelevant Ad Content: Ads that are not relevant to the podcast's audience can be off-putting and may lead to listeners skipping them or disengaging from the episode.
    • Loss of Authenticity: Excessive commercialization or promotion of products that don't align with the podcast's values or host's persona could erode trust and authenticity, which are key to listener loyalty.
    • Listener Resistance to Commercialization: As podcasts become more commercial, there's a risk that the original charm and personal connection that drew listeners could diminish, leading to a backlash against overt monetization.
    Podcast Monetization Bar Chart
    Podcast Monetization

    The tipping point for podcast ads often refers to a moment when podcast advertising gains widespread acceptance among advertisers as a valuable component of their marketing mix.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As this trend continues to evolve, we can expect to see increased innovation in podcast advertising, with brands and creators exploring new ways to engage and connect with their audiences in the audio space.

    Trend 8: More Podcasts In Pop Culture

    In recent years, the world of podcasts has transcended its auditory boundaries, weaving its way into the very fabric of pop culture. No longer confined to the realm of background listening, podcasts have emerged as influential characters and pivotal plot elements in films and television series.

    This integration marks a significant shift in how podcasts are perceived and represented in mainstream media.

    Examples Of More Podcasts In Pop Culture:

    • "Serial" in "Saturday Night Live": The popular sketch comedy show "Saturday Night Live" featured a hilarious parody of the true crime podcast "Serial," with Cecily Strong portraying Sarah Koenig, the host of the podcast.
    • "Homecoming" TV Adaptation: The podcast "Homecoming," known for its gripping storytelling, was adapted into a television series starring Julia Roberts, expanding its reach from audio to visual media.
    • "Lore" on Amazon Prime: The podcast "Lore" by Aaron Mahnke was transformed into an anthology series on Amazon Prime, delving into eerie and supernatural tales.
    • "Dirty John" on Netflix: The true crime podcast "Dirty John" inspired both a TV series and a documentary on Netflix, reaching a wider audience through the streaming platform.
    Basic Bar Chart without Y-Axis Label
    The Most Popular Podcast Genres in The US

    These podcasts are just a snapshot of the diverse and rich world of podcasting, reflecting the wide range of interests and topics that can be explored through this medium.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As podcasts continue to permeate mainstream culture, we can expect to see an even greater integration of podcasts into various aspects of our daily lives, further solidifying their place in pop culture.

    Trend 9: A Rise In Live Podcasting Events

    The next item on our list of top podcast predictions and trends for 2024 is the anticipated surge in live podcasting events.

    The allure of live podcasting gained substantial momentum last year, becoming a prominent topic of discussion in the podcasting community. Many individuals expressed their intent to explore live events or live podcasting as a key objective for 2024.

    Examples Of A Rise In Live Podcasting Events:

    • Live Podcast Tours: Podcasters taking their shows on the road, hosting live recordings in various cities to engage with fans in person and create a unique live experience.
    • Live Audience Interaction: Incorporating live audience participation into podcast recordings, such as Q&A sessions, polls, and real-time feedback, fostering a sense of community.
    • Podcast Festivals: The proliferation of podcast festivals, where multiple podcasters gather to perform live shows, share insights, and connect with their audience.
    • Hybrid Events: Combining virtual and in-person elements, allowing global audiences to participate in live podcast recordings through livestreaming and interactive features.
    • Live Video Streaming: Simultaneously recording and streaming podcast episodes on platforms like YouTube or Twitch, enabling a visual component to live recordings.
    Popular Podcast Publishing Platforms
    Popular Podcast Publishing Platforms

    Reynolds points out the immense potential live podcasting events hold for creating dynamic, engaging experiences.

    images

    Don’t be afraid to leverage live events with your podcast. Either yours or someone else’s events can lead to amazing opportunities.

    Chris Reynolds

    Host The Business Method Podcast & Founder of M3 Entrepreneurs Club

    Source: Gracious Quotes

    His perspective illuminates how live podcasting can lead to incredible opportunities for growth, networking, and audience engagement.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As this trend continues to evolve, we can anticipate more diverse and innovative live podcasting events that bring creators and their audiences closer together, enriching the podcasting landscape.

    Trend 10: More Podcasts

    Lastly, among our podcast predictions for 2024, we anticipate a continued expansion in the number of podcasts worldwide.

    As more individuals embrace podcasting, the podcasting landscape is poised to accommodate a growing array of new shows. If you've been contemplating turning your podcast idea into reality, 2024 could be the ideal time to take the plunge and bring your vision to life.

    Examples Of More Podcasts:

    • Niche Podcasts: Increasing numbers of podcasts focusing on highly specific niches, catering to diverse interests, hobbies, and subcultures.
    • Regional and Local Podcasts: Growth in podcasts highlighting regional stories, culture, and perspectives, providing a platform for local voices.
    • Business and Entrepreneurship Shows: A surge in podcasts dedicated to entrepreneurship, startups, and business strategies, as more individuals seek to share their expertise and insights.
    • Educational Podcasts: Expansion of educational podcasts across various subjects, from history and science to language learning and self-improvement.
    • Health and Wellness Podcasts: A rise in podcasts addressing mental health, fitness, nutrition, and holistic well-being, reflecting the growing interest in personal wellness.
    Styled Table

    Podcasters Vs Listeners

    Number of Podcasters Listeners
    29% Less than 5,000 listeners
    16% 5k-10k listeners
    19% 10k-50k listeners
    16% 50k-100k listeners
    10% 100k-300k listeners
    5% 300k+ listeners
    6% 1 million+ listeners

    Jarvis emphasizes the unique opportunity podcasting presents for authentic, meaningful conversations with a diverse range of individuals from various backgrounds.

    images

    Podcasting is an opportunity to have real, authentic conversations with people from all walks of life.

    Rebecca Jarvis

    Host of “No Limits with Rebecca Jarvis”

    Source: GoDaddy

    Her views highlight the power of podcasting as a platform for sharing stories, experiences, and insights from people across different walks of life.

    Jarvis underscores the significance of this medium in creating a space for open dialogue and genuine connection, fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience.

    👉
    Trendsetters' Takeaway: As the podcasting landscape continues to evolve, we can expect to see an even greater diversity of voices, topics, and formats, providing something for everyone in the vast world of podcasting.

    FAQs

    What are the top podcast genres in 2024?

    In 2024, the leading podcast genres are True Crime, Wellness & Health, Technology, Educational Content, and Storytelling & Drama. These genres have seen significant growth due to their engaging content and relevance to current listener interests.

    How has technology impacted podcasts in 2024?

    Advancements in technology have led to better sound quality, immersive audio experiences, and interactive features in podcasts. Additionally, AI-driven personalization has become more prevalent, offering listeners tailored content recommendations.

    Are video podcasts gaining popularity in 2024?

    Yes, video podcasts have gained traction, offering a visual element to the traditional podcast format. This trend caters to audiences who prefer visual content and platforms like YouTube have become popular venues for these podcasts.

    Future Insights

    Understanding anticipated trends can enhance your awareness of how the broader podcasting landscape might influence your specific podcasting endeavors.

    Keep in mind that you don't have to pursue every trend. Evaluate what aligns with your unique podcast and concentrate your efforts on what resonates most effectively with your audience.

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