Episode Details

How do you feel about the future of podcasting in 2026?

Episode 1033 Published 1 month ago

In this episode, we answer a question I know has been on the minds of so many podcasters: Where is podcasting headed?

Spotify, YouTube, and AI Slop: I kicked things off sharing my concerns about immoral creators, content exclusivity, and how blurry the definition of a “podcast” is getting.
Optimism vs. Pessimism: We heard from multiple voices on whether the future looks bright or grim, and what keeps each of us going.
Video, Discoverability, and Content Overload: How YouTube’s dominance and the rise of video (and AI-generated "slop") is shifting the landscape, sometimes making things more confusing than ever.
Monetization Woes and the Hopes for Crowdfunding: Many noted frustration with ads and the current monetization system, with hope for easier, more integrated crowdfunding in the future.
Government Regulation and Freedom of Speech: A Canadian listener shared real concerns about government overreach and its chilling effect on creators.
Defining Your “Why” and Staying True to Your Mission: Several contributors reminded us to focus on passion, purpose, and connecting with our audience.
Staying Resilient: Through all the changes—algorithm shakeups, new platforms, and shifting formats—what matters most is keeping your audience at the heart of what you do.