What Is a Podcast? The Internet’s Favorite Obsession, Explained

Don’t know what a podcast is? 

You’re probably one of the few people left who haven’t jumped on the hottest media trend of our time.  

Podcasts gained popularity in 2005 when “podcast” was named word of the year by the New Oxford American Dictionary. 

What began as a niche hobby has grown into popular media that more than 500 million people listen to each month.

The word “podcast” is just “iPod” and “broadcast” mashed together. Pretty clever, right?

In this guide, we will explore deeply about podcasts, covering:

• What is a podcast, and how does it work?
• History of podcasts.
• Why are podcasts so popular? 
• Different podcast types (with real examples)  
• How do podcasters make money? 

What is a Podcast?

A podcast is an audio-based series that listeners can stream or download on demand. Technically, it’s distributed through an RSS feed, which automatically updates new episodes for subscribers. 

Podcasts cover nearly any topic, from storytelling and education to comedy or niche hobbies. You can access podcasts on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Google Podcasts.

According to podcastatistics, about 158 million people, or 55% of those in the United States, listen to podcasts. The popularity of podcasts is growing at a staggering rate. 

At first, only individuals were hosting podcasts, but now, due to gaining popularity & business interest, many companies have heavily invested in podcasting.

Source – podcastatistics.com 

Why Are Podcasts So Popular?

Not everyone has time to read a blog or binge-watch a Netflix documentary. 

But podcasts? They fit right into your day, while commuting, cleaning, or hitting the gym.

Podcasts feel personal. You’re not listening to a brand. 

You’re listening to a voice. A story. A perspective.

And people are listening, over 109 million Americans in 2024 alone, and more than 400 million globally.

Most podcasts don’t have staged scripts. Just honest conversations that build trust over time.

They’re loaded with value, too. 55% of listeners tune in to learn something new, and 60% listen primarily for entertainment.

Want to understand marketing trends, master productivity, or fall into a true crime rabbit hole? There’s a podcast for that.

Once someone hits “subscribe,” they stick. 

Podcast listeners are known for their loyalty and attention, something most platforms only dream of.

Interesting Read: Voice Search Optimization: What it is and 6 Tips to Rank Higher

Source: Statista

A Brief History of Podcasts

It started in the early 2000s. iPods were new, audio software was becoming cheaper, and blogging was exploding. 

People were hungry to create, and even hungrier to consume content on their terms.

In 2000, a brand called i2Go launched MyAudio2Go. 

It lets users download news clips straight to their MP3 players. 

That same year, developer Tristan Louis suggested something game-changing: add audio to RSS feeds. The idea took root, thanks to Dave Winer, the guy behind the RSS format itself. 

Suddenly, you could subscribe to audio content like blog posts. No need to visit a site every day. The new stuff just showed up.

Then came the Big Bang.

In 2004, The Guardian published an article called “Audible Revolution.” 

Journalist Ben Hammersley floated the term “podcasting” for the first time. Just like that, the name stuck.

Soon after, former MTV host Adam Curry, known as the Podfather, launched the first podcast, Daily Source Code. 

First ever podcast – Daily source with Adam Curry

From there, developers, bloggers, and hobbyists jumped in. Things started to heat up in late 2004.

Apps like iPodderX made it dead simple to download and organize episodes.

But the real game-changer?

In June 2005, Apple dropped iTunes 4.9 with built-in podcast support. 

Suddenly, millions of people could search, subscribe, and sync shows to their iPods in just a few clicks.

By 2007, the podcast started getting traction.

Anyone with a laptop, a mic, and some free software could publish their voice to the world.

As we know what a podcast is, why it is so popular & its origin. Now, let’s understand how this works. 

How Does a Podcast Work?

Podcasts may feel effortless to listen to, but behind each episode is a process that blends storytelling, tech, and smart distribution. Here’s a breakdown of how a podcast works. 

Recording the Content

Every podcast starts with an idea. The host plans what to talk about; this could be a personal story, an interview, or a panel discussion.

To record, podcasters use:

• A microphone (USB or XLR, depending on budget).
• Recording software like Audacity, GarageBand, Riverside.fm, or Zencastr.
• Sometimes, tools like Zoom or Skype are used to connect with remote guests.

Some creators also script episodes in advance or outline key points to discuss.

Editing and Finalizing the Episode

Once the audio is recorded, the raw file is cleaned up. Editing includes:

• Removing background noise, silences, or mistakes.
• Balancing audio levels and trimming awkward transitions.
• Adding intro/outro music, ads, or sound effects if needed.
• In video podcasts, editing also involves syncing audio and trimming footage.

Common editing tools used: Adobe Audition, Descript, Audacity, or even AI tools for noise reduction.

Creating Episode Details

Before publishing, each episode needs metadata, such as:

• A clear title. 
• A short episode description (what the listener will learn or hear)
• Tags or categories (helps platforms organize it)
• Optional: episode number, season, transcript, or guest links. 

These details help with searchability and user experience across platforms. 

Uploading to a Podcast Host

After editing, the final audio (usually in MP3 format) is uploaded to a podcast hosting platform like:

• Buzzsprout
• Libsyn
• Anchor (now Spotify for Podcasters)
• Podbean
• Captivate

These platforms store your files and generate an RSS feed, a special link that contains your show’s content and structure.

Your RSS feed includes:

• Your show’s title and artwork.
• Each episode’s title, description, and link.
• Optional show notes or transcripts.

Distributing to Podcast Apps

The RSS feed is submitted once to platforms like:

• Apple Podcasts.
• Spotify.
• Google Podcasts / YouTube Music.
• Amazon Music.
• Pocket Casts, Overcast, and others.

These platforms read your RSS feed regularly. When you publish a new episode, they automatically update their listings. You don’t have to upload episodes separately on each app.

Reaching the Listeners

Once your podcast is live on platforms:

• Listeners can stream, download, or subscribe to get new episodes automatically.
• Many apps allow offline listening.
• Subscribing means users are notified when you upload a new episode.
• Listeners can also leave reviews, rate your show, or share it.

Optional features like transcripts, episode chapters, or clickable show notes can improve accessibility and user experience.

Distribution Through RSS Feeds

Once your RSS feed is submitted to platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts, these apps monitor the feed regularly. Every time you publish a new episode, they fetch and display it automatically.

This is how podcasting remains “platform-agnostic”: one upload reaches multiple apps.

Are Podcasts Free to Listen To?

Yes, most podcasts are completely free to listen to. You don’t need to pay to access the majority of episodes available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts. 

You can stream them on-demand or download them for offline listening. 

But here’s a bit more detail:

These paid perks help creators earn income, but the core show usually remains free for everyone.

Different Types of Podcasts with Examples

Interview Podcasts

This classic format features a recurring host chatting with new guests in every episode, like thought leaders, artists, scientists, or everyday people with extraordinary stories. 

The structure is simple, but the value comes from the guest’s perspective and the host’s questions.

If there’s one show that helped put interview-style podcasts on the map, it’s The Joe Rogan Experience. Hosted by comedian and commentator Joe Rogan.

It’s known for long, unfiltered conversations with all kinds of guests, scientists, authors, athletes, and actors. What makes it different? It’s casual. There’s no script, no rush. 

Just hours of real talk that can swing from space exploration to stand-up comedy to the meaning of life, all in one episode.

🔥 Trivia: After landing a $200 million exclusive deal with Spotify, Rogan’s show became the most-streamed podcast on the planet.

Panel or Conversational Podcasts

This podcast format usually involves multiple hosts or regular guests discussing news, pop culture, politics, or even their personal lives. 

One such example is SmartLess, hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. 

The show thrives on witty banter and surprise guests like Barack Obama and Ryan Reynolds.

☕ Trivia: When Amazon bought exclusive rights to SmartLess for $80 million, it was considered one of the biggest podcast licensing deals in history.

Solo Podcasts

Also known as monologue podcasts, these are hosted by one person who delivers content solo, often motivational talks, niche insights, or deep reflections. 

It’s just you and the voice of someone who knows their topic (and their audience).

For instance, The Mindset Mentor, hosted by Rob Dial, offers mindset hacks, mental health tools, and confidence-building tips, all in episodes under 20 minutes.

🧠 Trivia: Solo podcasts are often the easiest to launch, and also the hardest to maintain. According to Buzzsprout, over 75% of solo podcasters quit before hitting their 10th episode.

Educational Podcasts

If you’re the kind of person who asks search engines random facts at 2 AM (same), this format’s for you. Educational podcasts make learning feel less like school and more like exploring. 

Stuff You Should Know is a great education-based podcast. From “how passports work” to “what causes déjà vu,” this show explains the fascinating stuff we didn’t know we cared about. 

SYSK has over 1,500 episodes, and one of their most popular topics? How lava lamps work.

📚 Trivia: SYSK was one of the first podcasts ever archived by the U.S. Library of Congress. That’s serious nerd cred.

Narrative Podcasts

These types of podcasts feel like a Netflix docuseries, but only in audio format. They often follow a single story arc across multiple episodes, using narration, interviews, and original music to create tension and emotion.

Why do listeners love it? It’s immersive. These shows are paced like thrillers, and listeners often binge episodes back-to-back.

These are your binge-worthy, “just one more episode” kind of shows. 

Whether true crime or fiction, they’re built around suspenseful storytelling and cinematic sound design.

Serial, sponsored by The New York Times, is a notable example of narrative podcasts; it is one of the audio shows that made podcasting “mainstream.” 

“Serial” is a Peabody Award-winning investigative journalism podcast recognized for its narrative, non-fiction storytelling style.

🔍 Trivia: Serial’s first season about the Adnan Syed case helped reopen a real criminal investigation. That’s the real-world impact of a good story, well told.

True Crime Podcasts

A wildly popular sub-genre of storytelling, true crime podcasts dive into real-life mysteries, cold cases, or famous investigations. Some are investigative, others reflective, but all tap into our collective fascination with the unknown.

Crime Junkie is one of the popular example of true crime podcast, the show retells cases in an easy-to-follow. The thrill of real stories with suspenseful narration has made this addictive for its listeners. 

🔪 Trivia: According to Spotify, true crime has the highest “completion rate”; once people start an episode, they have to finish it.

News & Current Affairs Podcasts

Too busy for news apps? These podcasts give you bite-sized summaries and context for what’s happening in the world. 

These podcasts break down major headlines and issues into digestible audio updates, often with added context, expert commentary, or boots-on-the-ground reporting. They’re perfect for your commute, coffee run, or just catching up while folding laundry.

The Daily from The New York Times is a very popular news podcast. Michael Barbaro hosts it, and each weekday, it covers one big news story in about 20 minutes.

🗞️ Trivia: The Daily hit over 4 million listeners per day by 2024, making it one of the most-listened-to podcasts in the world.

Podcast vs YouTube Videos

At first glance, podcasts and YouTube videos might seem similar; they’re both digital content, they both feature people talking, and they can both be entertaining or educational. 

Here’s a breakdown of what sets them apart, especially when comparing audio-first podcasts with video content like YouTube.

🎥 So… Can’t You Just Do Both?

Actually, many creators do! The rise of video podcasts means a single recording can be shared as:

• A traditional audio podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
• A full-length video episode on YouTube. 

That way, listeners and viewers get to choose how they consume the content, based on mood, context, or even Wi-Fi strength.

Here are some of the top-performing podcast genres in 2024-

Source: Podcastle

How Do Podcasters Make Money?

While podcasting may start as a hobby, many creators turn it into a real income stream over time. One of the most common ways podcasters earn money is through sponsorships. Brands pay to be mentioned in episodes, especially if the show targets a specific niche audience. These ads are often read by the host to keep them sounding natural and authentic.

Another income source is listener support. Platforms like Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee let fans contribute directly, often in exchange for bonus content, early access, or exclusive perks. It’s a simple model: if people love what they hear, many are happy to chip in and support it.

Affiliate marketing is also popular. Podcasters recommend products and earn a commission when listeners make a purchase using a special link or promo code. For example, a wellness podcast might promote a meditation app or supplement brand they genuinely use.

For larger shows, live events, and podcast tours are another revenue stream. These can include live tapings, virtual meetups, or workshops. Lastly, many podcasters use their show to promote their products or services, like online courses, books, or consulting.

In short, there’s no single way podcasters make money. Most blend multiple methods, and the key is consistency, creativity, and understanding their audience.

TL;DR – What Is a Podcast? Now You Know

Podcasts may be new compared to other media, but they’ve quickly become part of everyday life. From news and learning to stories and laughs, there’s a podcast for almost everything.

The best part? You can listen anytime, anywhere, no screen needed. Just find a show you like and hit play. Add audio to your strategy and, with Digital Guider, identify where your audience listens, then build from there.

FAQs

Why is it called a “podcast”?

Because it blends the words “iPod” and “broadcast.” Ironically, most people don’t use iPods anymore; today, podcasts are streamed on smartphones.

Who came up with the word “podcast”?

The first known use was in a 2004 Guardian article by journalist Ben Hammersley. He casually threw out the term while discussing the rise of audioblogging. 

How many podcasts exist today? 

There are over 5 million active podcasts worldwide, with 70+ million episodes. That’s enough content to last several lifetimes!

What’s the longest podcast episode ever recorded?

In 2016, Mike and Isabella Russell hosted a podcast that ran for 153 hours straight. Yes, that’s over 6 days of continuous talking!

What’s the most listened-to podcast genre globally?

True crime leads the charts almost everywhere, from the U.S. to Australia. Hearing about mysteries pairs well with cooking or commuting.

Did a U.S. president ever host a podcast?

 Yes! Barack Obama co-hosted Renegades: Born in the USA with Bruce Springsteen, where they talked about music, race, and American life.

What’s the most downloaded podcast of all time?

As of recent years, The Joe Rogan Experience holds the crown, especially after signing an exclusive deal with Spotify reportedly worth $200 million.

Do I need an internet connection to listen?

You need the internet to stream or download an episode. But once downloaded, you can listen offline anytime.

Can I make my podcast?

Absolutely. With a mic, free editing software, and a hosting platform, anyone can start their own podcast, even from home.

Do I need a website for my podcast?

Not necessarily, but having one helps with SEO, sharing episodes, building a brand, and connecting with listeners beyond audio.