What A Podcast Is And Why It’s Changing
A podcast is a show that you listen to or watch on demand, often via a streaming app or platform. People produce episodes, upload them, and listeners can consume them anytime. According to Digital Silk, there were about 3.55 million podcasts in 2025 with around 584 million listeners worldwide. (Digital Silk)
That sheer volume means the format has shifted beyond niche topics. Shows range from true-crime documentaries to business talk, lifestyle chats and celebrity interviews. Because you can listen on your commute, while cooking or working out, podcasts fit into daily routines in a flexible way.
Because the definition is stretching, some people now call long-form videos “podcasts” too. Business Insider found that 52 percent of people consider YouTube-only videos as podcasts. (Business Insider) That change shows how fluid content formats are right now — what matters is how people engage, not just how it’s labeled.
Why More People Are Listening And What That Means
Listeners turn to podcasts because they can multitask while consuming audio. Many use devices like smartphones or smart speakers, especially when driving or doing chores. Riverside reports that 34 percent of Americans listen to an average of 8.3 episodes per week. (Riverside)
For advertisers and creators this matters because audio creates a more personal connection. A listener might feel like they’re part of a conversation with the host, which builds loyalty and keeps them coming back. That loyalty often leads to actions like making a purchase after hearing an ad on a show. Digital Silk found that 46 percent of weekly podcast listeners have made a purchase after hearing an ad. (Digital Silk)
If you create content or follow media trends the takeaway is that podcasts offer a way to build deeper engagement than many other formats. Because listeners often tune in regularly, episodes can become habits rather than one-off views. That routine matters if you’re trying to stand out in a crowded space.
How The Business Side Is Shifting With Podcasts
The growth in podcasting is not just about listeners — it’s about how creators and platforms are adapting. Show creators now consider audio and video versions, and distribution across apps, smart speakers and even video platforms. Riverside noted that video podcasts are becoming more common. (Riverside)
Platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts have become key players in this ecosystem. They offer analytics, monetization tools and distribution support. As creators get access to better tools, the quality of shows improves, which in turn attracts more listeners and sponsors. That creates a feedback loop where higher quality drives growth.
For someone thinking about launching or following podcasts it’s useful to recognize that the format is becoming more professional. It’s not just casual talk anymore — shows compete for attention and ad dollars. But this shift also means there’s space for niche voices, because content is so varied and listeners are spread across many interests.
What This Means For You As A Listener Or Creator
If you listen to podcasts, you may already know how they fit your routine. Maybe you listen on your way to work, while exercising or cooking. Because you can multitask, audio content can become part of your day in a way videos often don’t. The growth data shows that pattern is common.
If you’re a creator or thinking of starting a show, the trend suggests there’s opportunity — but also competition. To stand out you’ll likely need a clear angle, consistent publishing and a way to connect with your audience. You don’t need to aim for millions; a loyal niche audience often matters more.
For anyone worried about getting lost in the crowd: the high number of podcasts might seem daunting, but it also means listeners have diverse tastes. That diversity means there’s room for voices that don’t fit the mainstream. The key is consistency and authenticity, not mirror-image copy of what’s already out there.
