Top Podcast Trends for 2025: What You Need to Know
What will shape the podcast industry in 2025? Who the hell knows?
But let’s pretend we’ve got a crystal ball and dig into the most likely trends coming our way.
Before we look ahead, let’s take a quick glance back at what stood out in 2024—because some of these trends are definitely sticking around.
2024 in Podcasting: A Look Back
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Podcasting Goes MainstreamThe U.S. elections gave podcasting a massive boost, as candidates started prioritizing appearances on popular podcasts. Suddenly, podcasting isn’t just cool—it’s respected. Fingers crossed we don’t look back at this as podcasting’s “jump-the-shark” moment.
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The Video Podcast BoomYouTube became a primary destination for podcast consumption, with Spotify and Apple doubling down on video integration. If you’re still audio-only, this trend might feel as relentless as a District 9 prawn infection.
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The AI Revolution in PodcastingAI tools weren’t just supporting content creation in 2024—they were everywhere. From sound design to audience engagement, AI went all in. Sure, some tools are amazing, and some are crap, but the pendulum is swinging.
Now, let’s get to what you’re really here for: the trends you need to know for 2025.
Top Podcast Trends for 2025
There are a lot of podcast experts sharing their predictions these days but I enjoyed the article on CoHost, check it out if you want to go deeper because I’m keeping it brief.
Here are my top 3 trend predictions, plus a bonus one from my wife (she’s also a podcast coach, and she’s usually right).
1. Monetization Gets More Creative
Monetization has always been the holy grail for podcasters, but 2025 will take it to new heights.
For entrepreneurs, I always recommend focusing on how your podcast can directly support your business. Forget chasing ad dollars—use dynamic ads to drive leads or create private podcasts as a lead magnet.
Think about how you can repurpose, repackage, and resell your podcast content. This isn’t just about making money; it’s about making your podcast work harder for you.
2. Video is Non-Negotiable
Video podcasts are becoming a must-have. They increase visibility, improve discoverability, and help build your brand. But don’t jump on this trend blindly.
Here’s my take: If video doesn’t align with your brand or your listener’s needs, don’t do it. A poorly executed video strategy can hurt more than help. But if you’re ready to dive in, make sure your video content is intentional, professional, and enhances the listener experience.
3. Authenticity is Everything
Authenticity has always been trendy, but in 2025, it’s non-negotiable. With AI flooding the content market, people are craving real, human connections.
The best way to ride this trend? Be yourself. Share stories, go beyond the stats, and build a relationship with your audience. Treat them like a community, not just listeners.
Bonus Trend: Micro Podcasts
Thanks to shrinking attention spans, micro podcasts—episodes under five minutes—are gaining traction. Even platforms like YouTube are prioritizing short-form content, so why not podcasting?
One of my clients added a second, shorter episode each week, and it doubled her downloads. If this fits your show and your goals, it could be a game-changer.
The Timeless Trend: Be Listener-Centric
Trends come and go, but one thing never changes: your podcast needs to serve your listeners.
For entrepreneurs, this means aligning your podcast with your business goals and focusing on how you solve problems for your clients. No trend will have more impact than creating a listener-focused, intentional podcast.
Is Your Podcast Ready for 2025?
Are you still loving your podcast? Is it delivering the ROI you want for your business? If not, it might be time for a pivot.
Our Podcast Tune-Up program can help realign your show with your goals, revitalize you as a host, and re-energize your listeners.
Find out more about the Podcast Tune-Up HERE.
Taking your podcast into 2025 is about staying intentional, embracing the trends that work for you, and focusing on your listeners.
