Why audio entertainment continues to thrive in the 21st century

Podcasts are an extremely popular form of entertainment. According to Edison Research, at least 112 million Americans have listened to a podcast and 67 million listen to podcast monthly in 2018. When radio began to decline in the 90’s, many believed that it would be the end of audio-focused entertainment. However, as internet and smartphone technology began to flourish, the popularity of podcasts began to rise. I will outline what I believe are the core reasons for the success of podcasts.

The first benefit of podcasts is an inexpensive barrier to entry. Creating a podcast is relatively simple. All one needs is a microphone and computer to upload the audio. While most professional podcast websites like SoundCloud require users to pay a monthly fee, it is possible to host a podcast for free on websites like YouTube. This allows for more people to create content than ever before. The internet is filled with a large variety of wonderful podcasts that attract a number of different audiences. Podcasts can span topics from technology and politics to pop culture and dating. This has helped lead to podcasts becoming extremely popular over time.

The next benefit is convenience. Unlike video, podcasts only require the users to use their ears to enjoy them. This means that they can be played while the user’s other senses are occupied with other activities. When a podcast is coupled with smartphone technology, the podcasts can be used on the go during exercise for instance. They also can be played in most modern cars which can be convenient for consumers who drive a long distance and are looking for something to do during that time. Podcasts fill a need because they are accessible to people who have limited time to devote to entertainment.

The last piece of the puzzle is authenticity. The internet has given more people the ability to create and distribute content than ever before. Anyone can start a podcast with limited resources. Audiences are no longer forced to listen to influencers vetted by radio stations –  they have the option to listen to “regular people” like themselves. Listeners can find podcasters whom they feel a connection to. This helps set podcasts apart from the audio-based entertainment of the past. Podcasts provide entertainment that listeners feel is more relatable and authentic than other forms of media.

Podcasts will surely continue to thrive in the foreseeable future. They present opportunities for people to express ideas and opinions freely with a possibility of millions of listeners. Modern technology allows for new innovative podcasts to be created daily. In the growing digital age, people want entertainment that is convenient and authentic. Podcasts meet this need in a way that mediums such as video do not. It will be exciting to see how podcasts will continue to grow in the digital entertainment space.