In the spring of each year, Edison Research publishes its compiled statistics for the previous year on podcasting and podcast listeners. One thing is definitely evident, every year podcasting is becoming more and more popular. In fact, podcasting is the fastest growing media in the world!
62 million people are reported to listen to podcasts each week. And the average podcast listener has at least 7 different podcasts that they listen to, usually on their smartphone!
The average listener will do so while at home (90%) or while traveling to and from work (64%). Nearly half of those surveyed also said they listen to podcasts while exercising or going for a walk (49%).
What does this mean for you?
Look at the three methods of communication in the media market. Audio (radio and podcasting), visual (television or videos), and written (newspapers, magazines, and blog posts). Two of the three require captivated attention (video and written). Only one method of communication will allow people to do other activities while still getting the information they want. Audio!
Your listeners don’t need to be tethered to a computer screen to see or read your information. They will take their smartphone to the gym, in the car, for a walk or while working around the house or in the garden. Even modern cars are implementing podcast listening devices (USB and embedded audio) that support podcasting!
I’m hanging out with myself a bit, but I can remember when cars only came equipped with AM radio. FM was a “special order” item! How times have changed!
When you have a podcast that provides information that people want to consume, they will find a way to get it. That is the whole purpose of podcasting, to provide information. That information can be fiction or non-fiction; news or entertainment. There are people who listen to your podcast, regardless of what niche you are in. Obviously, the more popular the niche, the larger the potential audience. But you can become a major player in a smaller niche!
The average consumer of audio podcasts reports that they are doing housework, housework, or just “nothing at all” (70 +%). More than half (52%) are driving!
Your podcast is the way to communicate your story to those who need to hear it. And people in your niche will listen to you.
