If you haven’t listened to a podcast yet, you’re now in the minority.
According to Podcast Insights, 51% of the US population has listened to at least one podcast. Since the first podcast came on the scene in 2004, there are now over 750,000 podcast shows with over 30 million episodes.
What’s behind this massive growth?
Smartphones are having the biggest impact by allowing you to listen to podcasts anywhere and anytime. As an extension of the smartphone, advancements in headphone technology such as wireless, noise-canceling, water resistance, and ease of use are driving new fans. The growth of personal digital assistants at home, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple’s Siri, are furthering accessibility. Finally, the proliferation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into new cars is broadening access to optimal listening times.
Podcast listeners are also loyal fans. Over 80% of listeners listen to seven shows per week — and they listen to all or most of each episode, which can range from a few minutes to multiple hours.
