The podcast events provide incredible opportunities for podcasters, podcast creators, and those working in all aspects of the industry to learn, collaborate, and celebrate all things podcasting. 

The next six months are primed to provide awesome opportunities for all those in the podcasting space. And We Edit Podcasts is here to guide you through the excitement with our Ultimate Guide to the Most Exciting Podcast Events 2024 Part 1: January to June

We Edit Podcasts Ultimate Guide to the Most Exciting Podcast Events and Conferences in 2024 – January to June

January 

PodFest Expo

Date: 25-28 January 2024

Event Type: In-Person

Venue: WYNDHAM ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL DRIVE

Podfest Expo is a community of people who are interested in and passionate about sharing their voice and message with the world through the powerful mediums of audio and video.

A fun selling point of this podcast event is the ability to customize your Podfest experience. There are six different topic tracks on offer, and through this lens, you can find the sessions that best suit you and your show best.

Whether you’re new to podcasting or a veteran podcaster looking to innovate and improve your podcast, you’ll find just what you need to learn, no matter your skill level or experience.

February 

PodCamp Toronto

Date: 23-25 February 2024

Event Type: In-Person

Location: Toronto Metropolitan University’s Rogers Communications Centre

Cost: Free

PodCamp Toronto is Canada’s largest and longest-running two-day digital media unconference. It’s an exciting in-person, full-weekend event that’s open to attendees from Canada, as well as from anywhere around the world! 

It’s a free, two-day “unconference” that’s all about sharing knowledge and passion for digital media.

This unconference is for everyone – from the brand-new podcasting hobbyists to seasoned digital marketers. All are welcome and all will find the vast array of discussion topics valuable.

NOTE: While the main events take place at Toronto’s Metropolitan University’s Rogers Communications, the Imperial Club is set to host an unofficial meet-up of our podcasting community on the eve of PodCamp.

You can find out more here.

On Air Fest

Date: FEB 28 – MAR 1, 2024

Event Type: In-person

Location: Brooklyn

Cost: There are a variety of passes and packages available, ranging from $175.00 to $700.00.

On Air Fest is a premier cultural event for audio creatives and inspired listeners. One of the many things that sets On Air Fest is that it has created a unique place to showcase the artists and the storytellers who are defining this moment in audio.  ‍‍

In 2024, On Air Fest will be hosted in multiple spaces in the Wythe Hotel. The event includes special programming, parties, and networking events, the presentation of the annual Audio Vanguard Award, and so much more.

And as always, there’s an incredible line-up of podcast superstars all set to share at the event, making this one podcast event not to be missed!

You can find out more here.

iHeart Podcast Awards

Date: 11 March 2024

Event Type: Virtual Event

Cost: Free

Okay, so technically, the iHeart Podcast Awards falls under the “Podcast Awards” category, but the iHeart Podcast Awards is a really great podcast event!

It’s a fun, star-studded awards show that makes for some seriously great viewing. Our idea of a “podcast event”!

Fans can tune in to watch this year’s iHeartPodcast Awards via a video stream in partnership with YouTube on iHeartRadio’s YouTube channel. 

Related read: Podcast Awards 2024: How to Get Your Podcast Nominated

Radiodays Europe

Date: 17 – 19 March 2024

Location: Munich, Germany

Cost: There are different passes, ranging from 100 EUR + 19% German VAT to 649 EUR + 19% German VAT

Radiodays Europe is the event in the Radio, Podcast and Audio World bringing together over 1,300 visitors from 65 countries over 3 days. This podcast event is the meeting point for the world of radio, podcasting, and audio.

Radiodays Europe as a podcast event in 2024 features sessions including keynote speeches, panel discussions, interactive sessions, summits, workshops as well as valuable networking events.

Radiodays Europe seeks to bring more ideas, the best innovations, the latest trends, and comprehensive data that attendees can use at their stations, their podcasts as well as in their audio companies.

Get your tickets here.

March 

Podcast Movement Evolutions

Date: 26-29 March 2024

Location: Los Angeles, California

Event Type: In-Person

Costs: BeginnerPass $194, PodcasterPass $294, Industry ProPass $649 (NOTE: These prices are based on the Super Early Sale and are subject to change as the dates approach.)

Evolutions is the newer event concept from the team behind the famous Podcast Movement (that event will feature on Part 2 of our list, coming out later in the year). Evolutions focuses on an in-depth look at the latest podcasting trends, tech, and developments in the ever-changing landscape of the industry. It’s also a much more focused experience for the attendees. The event has been divided into three distinct tracks Podcaster, Industry Pro, and Beginner. Each track is carefully curated to be a well-rounded offering of discussions covering the spectrum of podcasting.

There are always valuable networking opportunities and a great line-up of keynote speakers. There is also a super cool expo floor well as several social events and fun-filled parties!

Find out more here.

May 

The Podcast Show

Date: 22-23 May 2024

Location: London

Event Type: In-Person

Cost: TBA (‘First Release’ discounted passes go on sale on 8th February 2024!)

The Podcast Show is a unique global gathering of the broad and diverse podcasting community taking place in London in May!

Whether you’re an independent podcast creator, an established industry professional, or a business leader, you can be rest assured this one-of-its-kind event will inspire, power, and support the future of your influential industry at a crucial moment of unprecedented growth and change.

The event is geared to present over 100 leading global brands, technologies, and solution providers, supported by a world-class line-up of inspirational talent and content. For this podcast event 2024, there are day and night events in the pipeline, and we, for one can’t wait to find out more!

Register for the presale here.

Conclusion 

If you can’t tell already, this is one of our favorite posts to put together each year! We think podcast events and conferences are an incredible asset to the podcasting space. They provide a space to learn and grow as podcasters and those working in the podcasting industry. They allow you to meet your podcast idols and provide incredible networking opportunities. But more than all of that (and all of that is REALLY cool!) podcast events and conferences provide you the space to make some really cool friends with some really cool podcasting people.

What events are you attending this year? Let us know! Or did we miss an event? Tell us and we’ll add it!

And while we know you didn’t initially start your podcast with the sole aim of winning awards, there’s an undeniable allure at the possibility of winning an award for your show. Beyond the satisfaction of well-deserved recognition, podcast awards can significantly boost your podcast’s visibility and credibility within the industry. 

So, if you’re looking to boost your show’s recognition, and potentially dazzle dazzle your mantle in sparkly hardware, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of podcast awards programs on the cards for 2024.

Don’t have a podcast yet? No problem! We’ve got you covered with our How To Start a Podcast Guide for 2024! (For All Skill Levels!)

Podcast Awards Programs in 2024

1. The Podcast Academy Awards (The Ambies)

The Podcast Academy Awards, affectionally known as The Ambies, were created to celebrate excellence in podcasting and elevate the awareness and status of podcasts as a unique and personal medium for entertainment, information, storytelling, and expression.

Recognizing excellence in various categories, from storytelling and comedy to news and true crime, The Ambies have quickly become a prestigious acknowledgment of podcasting prowess. Entry is open to production companies, individual producers, creators, and podcast series distributors, given that they have released a minimum of three episodes within the specified timeframe.

While entries for this year’s ceremony are now closed, we can look forward to finding out who this year’s winners will be with the 2024 Ambies ceremony will be held in Los Angeles on March 26, 2024.

You can also check out the replay of last year’s ceremony here! Then keep a look out for the 2025 intake so that you can make sure your show is in the running!

*Costs: In 2023, for members of The Podcast Academy, the entry fee is $150. For non-members, the cost is $200. This information may differ for the 2024 intake.

2. The Webby Awards

While not exclusively dedicated to podcasts, The Webby Awards honor outstanding digital content across various categories and mediums, podcasting included. Podcasters compete in segments like Best Series, Best Host, Best Individual Episode, and a whole host of other categories, making it a highly competitive platform. (You can check out all the podcast-related categories here.)

Also worth noting is that within each category, there are two prizes up for grabs. One is the Webby Winner, who is selected by the members of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences. The second is the People’s Voice, who selected by the voting public. 

HURRY! The Entry Deadline for this year’s Webby Awards has been extended to Friday, February 9th, 2024! Click here to find out how you can submit your podcast!

*Entry fees differ, please see the guidelines here for further information.

3. Signal Awards

The Signal Awards is a newer addition to the podcast awards scene, with winners of the second inaugural Signal Awards having been announced in October of 2023. While there has been no recent information regarding the 2024 submission window, this podcast awards program is worth keeping on your radar.

The Signal Awards aims to honor those who elevate the standards of podcasting. Submissions involve costs, which vary based on the nature of the submission. So keep an eye out for announcements regarding the 2024 submissions! But in the meantime, you can check out the full list of last year’s winners here.

*Currently, there is no information regarding the fees associated with entering into the Signal Awards program in 2024. However, in 2023, the entry fees ranged between $135 to $855. 

4. The iHeartRadio Podcast Awards

Organized by iHeartRadio, one of the largest podcast platforms globally, the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards are arguably one of the most star-studded podcast awards programs out there! The iHeartRadio Podcast Awards celebrate the best in podcasting, with all kinds of categories ranging from Podcast of the Year to Best True Crime Podcast.

Scheduled for March 11th, 2024, the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards employ a unique approach. A judging panel selects nominees, but it’s the devoted listeners who determine the Podcast of the Year through voting. With over 30 categories, it’s a diverse platform recognizing various genres and styles. And as we mentioned, you can always expect a celeb surprise or two at the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards!

In preparation for this year’s event, check out the list of winners from last year’s awards here.

5. The People’s Choice Podcast Awards

Recognized as one of the longest-running podcast award programs, having been running since 2005, The People’s Choice Podcast Awards celebrates podcasts nominated by their audiences.

More commonly known as The Podcast Awards, the People’s Choice Podcast Awards is open to shows from all over the world, regardless of country of origin or language. 

2024 Annual Awards Registration will open Feb 1st. In the meantime, you can find out more about all the available categories and winners, as well as check out last year’s podcast awards ceremony here.

The awards ceremony usually takes place via a live video broadcast in September, as it coincides with International Podcast Day.

*There is currently no information regarding entry fees for 2024. However, in 2023, the entry fee was $50. 

6. International Women’s Podcast Awards

The International Women’s Podcast Awards is one of the newer awards kids on the block, entering its fourth year in 2024, but it’s definitely one of the cool “kids”! The International Women’s Podcast Awards aims to honor and celebrate moments of brilliance in podcasting and the women and people of diverse genders that produce them. 

The team behind these awards seeks to celebrate the work, both behind the mic and behind the scenes, from the women and non-binary podcast hosts and producers to editors and writers.

Something that sets the International Women’s Podcast Awards apart is that the judging panel doesn’t look at the genre your podcast is in, and they don’t look at how many downloads you’ve had. They’re after those exceptional moments of audio brilliance. 

You can find out more about the International Women’s Podcast Awards here.

*There is currently no information regarding entry fees for 2024. However, in 2023 the entry fees ranged between $25 to $60. 

7. The Peabody Awards

Next up, we have the Peabody Awards. The Peabody Awards exist to recognize exceptional storytelling. So although they are not exclusively an awards program for podcasts, several podcasts have been awarded a prestigious Peabody over the last couple of years.

Because of this prestige, there is a rigorous judging process, and winners are selected based on unanimous decisions by the board of jurors.

Entries typically open in October and close by December. You can find out more information here.

*Fees are determined by category and range from $450 to $800 for an individual entry.

The Following Podcast Awards Programs Are Location Specific

8. The Australian Podcast Awards

The Australian Podcast Awards is the largest party in Australian podcasting! This podcast awards program celebrates podcasts that have been made by Australians for Australians.

The entries for the Australian Podcast Awards are all self-nominated. There are also over 20 categories up for awards. Entries can come from independent podcasters, broadcasters, the business community, as well as students and non-profit organizations. 

In terms of the judging panel for this awards program, the judges usually consist of a panel of podcasting experts, but podcast listeners can cast their vote for The Listener’s Choice Award. 

While the information for the 2024 awards is currently unavailable, stay updated on their website or newsletter for submission details.

*There are two types of entry fees for the Australian Podcast Awards (based on the current information on their website, this may for these podcast awards in 2024): 

• 1. Independent podcasters (where the podcast’s turnover is less than $200,000 per year), educational institutions, or charities: $49+GST
• 2. Corporate podcasts (if it’s part of any business/corporate entity, OR is an independent podcaster that earns more than $200,000 per year): $199+GST.

9. The British Podcast Awards

Similar to its Australian counterpart, The British Podcast Awards honor outstanding podcasts produced in the United Kingdom. With categories ranging from Best Comedy to Best New Podcast, these awards showcase the rich tapestry of British podcasting. 

There is a vigorous judging process with a wide variety of categories judged by an independent panel. There is also the Listener’s Choice Award voted on by British podcast enthusiasts.

The 2024 entry period is set to open in February 2024.

10. The Canadian Podcast Awards

Dedicated to recognizing outstanding Canadian podcasts, the Canadian Podcast Awards celebrate the diversity of voices within the Canadian podcasting community. 

Again, there are a wide variety of categories, ranging from Arts, Business, and Health and Wellness, reflecting the breadth of Canadian podcast content.

If you fall in the category of “Canadian Podcast” then you will be eligible to join the Canadian Podcast Awards and find out more about these podcast awards in 2024.

Sign Up For Podcast Awards Programs in 2024!

Again, while we know that you didn’t get into the podcasting space to win awards (hey, even if you did, that’s cool too!) podcast awards programs present a unique opportunity to amplify your podcast’s impact and reach. Podcast awards programs are also an excellent way to meet cool podcasting people, network, and just learn so much about the podcasting industry. Bottom line? Participating in podcast awards, even if your podcast doesn’t take home the gold, fosters connections within the podcasting community and introduces your content to new audiences. 

And that’s what we call a win!

Keep an eye on our socials for updates on additional podcast awards in 2024, and who knows, your podcast could be the next show to take home a shiny podcast award!

Did we miss your favorite podcast awards programs? We’re sorry! Please let us know and we’ll add them to our list!

Related read: How To Win Podcast Awards

But the fact remains that there are all sorts of podcast award programs out there. And it would be cool to be able to see your podcast up amongst the nominee lists. Besides the confidence boost winning a podcast award for all your hard work would be, being the proud host of an award-winning podcast can also do a lot when it comes to furthering your path in the podcast industry.

In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at the podcast awards on the agenda for 2023 and how you can get your podcast nominated. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been podcasting for years, being nominated for podcast awards is a great way to give your show some extra exposure and connect with other passion podcasters in the industry.

So, start penning your acceptance speech, as we take a look at all the Podcast Awards lined up for 2023 and how you can get your podcast on the nominee list.

1. Signal Awards

The executives behind the annual Webby Awards have created a way to celebrate the world of podcasting by introducing the Signal Awards.The inaugural Signal Award winners were announced on the 23rd of January, 2023. So while you and your podcast won’t be able to enter this year, it’s one to remember when submissions open up for 2024.

The Signal Awards seeks to honor and celebrate the people and content that raise the bar for podcasting.

The Signal Award Competition is open to all organizations and individuals involved in the process of creating, running, hosting, managing, maintaining, marketing, or promoting podcasts. There are submission costs involved, and these depend on what you are submitting. You can find out more information here, so you’re ready when entries open.

You can also check out all of the winners from this year here.

And speaking of the Webbys…up next we have…

2. The Webby Awards

The Webby Awards honors excellence in 7 major media types: Websites, Video, Advertising, Media & PR, Social, Apps, Mobile, & Voice, Games, and, importantly in light of this list, Podcasts. 

There are a number of podcast-focused categories, and within each category, there are two prizes up for grabs – one is the Webby Winner, selected by the members of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and the other is the People’s Voice, selected by the voting public. 

There is a submission fee involved, but anyone is able to submit their show. Submissions for this year have been extended and will now close on February 10th, 2023.

You can submit your podcast here.

3. The iHeart Radio Podcast Awards

The iHeart Radio Podcast Awards for 2023 will be taking place March 14th, 2023.

For the iHeart Radio Podcast Awards, the nominees in most of the categories are selected by a judging panel “comprised of blue-ribbon podcast industry leaders, creatives and visionaries,” according to iHeartMedia. But it is the loyal listeners who cast their vote and determine which show will be crowned Podcast of the Year.

You can check out this year’s full list of nominees and the over 30 different categories here. Then keep an eye on their website for all the info on how your show can land on the next set of lists!

The ceremony can usually be viewed on YouTube or Facebook or listened to on @iheartradio.

The race is still on for Podcast of the Year! Take to Twitter and have your say!

4. The People’s Choice Podcast Award

The People’s Choice Podcast Awards – more commonly known as The Podcast Awards – is one of the longest-running podcast award programs. These awards have been honoring podcasters since 2005.

The People’s Choice Podcast Award celebrates podcasts nominated by their audiences and is open to shows from all over the world, regardless of country of origin or language. 

No information on the 2023 offering has been shared as of yet, but keep checking in, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to submit!

The awards ceremony usually takes place via a live video broadcast in September, as it coincides with International Podcast Day.

In the meantime, browse last year’s list of winners and watch the previous ceremony here. 

5. The Ambies

The Ambies are the Podcast Academy’s awards program for celebrating excellence in audio. And one of the main aims of the Ambies is “to honor podcasts as a unique and personal medium for entertainment, information, storytelling, and expression.”

Production companies, individual producers and creators, as well as distributors of a podcast series are eligible for entry, provided they published at least 3 episodes during the designated period.

The submissions for this year have closed, but stay tuned for the nominee announcement, which is set to take place in late January.

Take a look at the rules and timelines here, so you can get your show ready for next year’s nominee submission.

6. The Peabody Awards

The Peabody Awards exist to recognize when storytelling is done well; when stories matter. And so while these awards are not solely for podcasts, over the years, podcasts have been recognized and awarded these prestigious story-telling awards.

Entries usually open around October every year, and close by December. But you can find all the necessary information pertaining to the awards submissions here.

The nominees and winners must be unanimously chosen by the board of jurors, after an intense judging process.

NOTE: The following podcast award programs are location specific.

7. The British Podcast Awards

Yes, that is Idris Elba. The Idris Elba. And this, is the British Podcast Awards.

The British Podcast Awards honors podcasts and podcasters who produce their show in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, or whose content is specifically designed for UK audiences.

There is an entry fee required for your submission, and the nominees and eventual winner in each category are selected by an independent panel of judges, except the Listener’s Choice Award. The Listener’s Choice Award, voted for by British podcast listeners.

No news or updates yet about the program for 2023, but keep coming back to this post! We’ll update it as soon as any new dates drop!

8. The Australian Podcast Awards

The Australian Podcast Awards is a celebration of podcasts for Australia by Australians. The entries for these awards are all self-nominated, and there are over 20 categories up for awards. Entries come from independent podcasters, broadcasters, the business community, as well as students and non-profit organisations. The judges usually consist of a panel of podcasting experts, with podcast listeners eligible to vote for The Listener’s Choice Award. 

There is currently no information available for the 2023 awards, but if you’re an Australian-based podcast, keep an eye on the website, or sign up for their newsletter, so that you’re in the loop when the doors open for this year’s entries.

Check out the impressive list of winners from 2022 here.

In Conclusion

As we said in the beginning, winning podcast awards was probably not your motivation for starting your podcast.

But why not make it one of your podcasting dreams! It can bring recognition, open more doors, and not to mention, give you some pretty cool bragging rights!

Participating in podcast awards is a great way to gain further visibility for your show and amplify its reach, even if it doesn’t come out on top. Podcast awards offer an incredible opportunity to expand your network among other podcasters and introduce yourself and your content to prospective audiences.

A winning strategy, if you ask us.

NOTE: Keep an eye out on this post, as we will update it should other podcast award events open up throughout 2023.

Related read: The Exciting Podcast Events of 2023 – Part 1

2022 has been an exciting year for podcasting. With the industry booming and more content than ever being broadcast across the airwaves, 2022 was a big year for the podcasting space.

Looking back, so much happened over the course of the past 365 days! So much! We had a hard time narrowing down our top moments from the past year. But we did! And we’ve come up with our shortlist of the top podcasting highlights of 2022.

From new technologies to groundbreaking shows, let’s take a look at the podcasting highlights brought to us by 2022.

NOTE: These highlights are in no particular order. They’re simply a collection of some of the standout moments or events that occurred in the audio and podcasting space in 2022.

Podcasting Highlights of 2022

Podnews Report Card 2022

This year, Podnews introduced their podcasting report card as a way to gauge how the major podcasting platforms were doing.

It’s full of some really useful insights, and it also includes comments and feedback from participants, which are definitely worth a read. The reason this is a highlight is because we really value when others in the space are looking for innovative ways to help make the realm of podcasting better.

And the insight gathered from this report card does just that!

You can check out all the facts and figures, as well as the feedback here.

Podcasts on Screen

The role of “podcast host” is quickly growing as a screen credit. And we’re here for it! Over the years, there have been some cool shows where podcasting played a key role. Limetown was a big one.

But possibly the biggest use of podcasting as an actual character on the silver screen is Only Murders in the Building. This gem stars Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez as true-crime enthusiasts who become true-crime podcast co-hosts when a murder happens in their building.

Personally, I loved this series and thought the nuances of podcasts and podcasting were hysterically portrayed. It was fun to see the podcasting trope establish itself as, well, a trope! For someone who listens to a ton of shows, and works and writes in the industry, I found the references very meta, and I loved it!

Here’s to Season 3 in 2023!

Podcasts Deliver Justice

Something pretty incredible happened this year because of podcasts…justice! 2022 was unprecedented in the amount of cases that received closure because they were the subject matter of a podcast.

Crazy, right?!

And this didn’t just happen once!

But let me backtrack a bit…

Adnan Syed

First up, we had the phenomenal outcome for Adnan Syed. His name is synonymous with podcasts as he was the subject of the breakthrough podcast, Serial. The story captured the hearts and ears of the world, but the tale did not receive the storybook ending we were all hoping for.

By the time the podcast ended, Adnan Syed was still in prison, and for the many years since, it looked like that was where he was going to stay. Until 2022 rolled around, that is! News broke in September of this year that Adnan Syed was going to be freed. A mindblowing end to the podcast that started it all.

Read more about the whole story here.

Kristin Smart

The family of Kristin Smart, whose disappearance was the focus of the podcast Your Own Backyard also received closure this year. The podcast reignited interest in the case, which eventually saw Paul Flores arrested and convicted for her murder.

Read more on the story here.

Lynette Dawson

The family of Lynette Dawson, subject of the The Teacher’s Pet podcast also received justice this year. Thanks in large part to the investigation of podcast host and journalist Hedley Thomas, Chris Dawson was eventually arrested and convicted of her murder.

The podcast itself is a very detailed listen, and expertly brings you along on the investigation.

You can read all about it here: How The Teacher’s Pet podcast helped catch and jail a killer.

Podcast Justice

In a slightly different fight for justice, 2022 also saw Elizabeth Holmes, the subject of the podcast The Dropout, convicted of fraud for her role in the Theranos scandal. Later this year, she was also sentenced to more than 11 years in prison.

The Dropout was also adapted into a mini-series this year. Created by Elizabeth Meriwether, The Dropout starred Amanda Seyfried, who expertly portrayed Elizabeth Holmes, and brought the whole saga to life.

Return of International Podcast Day

Another fantastic highlight of 2022 was the return of the International Podcast Day event.

The 30th of September, 2022, saw the official International Podcast Day event in full swing.

There were so many cool events taking place throughout the course of the day. And, once again, the day brought together podcast enthusiasts from all across the globe.

If you missed out on this year’s event, you can catch replays of all the sessions here. And be sure to mark the 30th of September, 2023, on your calendar so you can join in the celebrations next year.

Some of our Favorite Podcasts

2022 also brought us some of our favorite podcasts ever!

Yes! I say it every year. (Which is pretty amazing for the podcasting space if you think about it!) But 2022 definitely delivered in terms of stellar podcasts!

Podcast creators are certainly amping up their editing and taking their story-telling skills to new levels. And this is amazing for the audio space as a whole!

But we really love the shows we got to discover this year! They were from all sorts of niches, and all types of genres (again, this is amazing for the space) and we couldn’t be prouder to be a part of it all!

You can check out our top podcast picks for 2022 in this post: A Collection of the Best Podcasts of 2022.

Video Podcasting

2022 also saw video becoming increasingly important to the podcasting space. Video podcasts have been around for a few years, but this year saw them become more popular.

There are many reasons for this. 2022 was a year for video across platforms. And including video in their podcasting offering was a way for podcast hosts to reach their listeners more effectively.

But it was also a clear strategy to connect with new listeners and so grow their audience.

The fact that YouTube came out tops in numerous polls as the world’s most popular podcast streaming platform also added to the push to video.

We do expect to see more podcasters offering video content on one platform or another in 2023.

The Return of In-Person Events

And lastly, 2022 also saw the return of many in-person podcast events! We know this was a 2022 “podcasting highlight” for many in our industry.

For an industry that is pretty solitary, in-person events allow podcast hosts to connect with others who are as passionate about the podcasting space as they are. So much work and effort goes into planning these types of events, and they’re always a ton of fun. But what is really cool is the vast variety of the types of events on offer.

Check out all the events 2022 brought us here and here. And keep an eye on our blog for the lowdown on all the podcasting events 2023 will bring us.

In Conclusion

2022 was another big year for podcasting. We’ve seen huge strides in terms of international recognition, as well as justice being served for those involved in criminal cases. We’ve also seen new ways to get creative with video and audio podcasting, as well as the return of traditional in-person events.

Not to mention podcasts and podcasting becoming a common part of our pop culture!

It’s truly been a year full of new beginnings for podcasting!

And we can’t wait to see all that the future has in store!

So, here’s to 2023! And here’s to podcasting!

What podcasting moments stood out for your this year? Share with us in the comments!

Over this season, we add some Holiday spice to all we do. Our coffee gets a holiday glow-up, our homes and towns turn into twinkly wonderlands, and we’re whisking up food and baked goods that have that distinct “holiday flavor”. Hmmmmm

And do you know what else could get a sprinkling of that holiday flavor?

Your podcast!

It can be a ton of fun adding some festive cheer to the episodes you share over the holiday season.

(Unless of course you’re taking a podcast break, that’s totally cool, too! Check out this post with guidelines for Taking a Podcast Break without Losing Your Listener.)

Even if your podcast typically covers less-than-cheerful topics, or you have a specific format you usually follow, you can still release holiday episodes! They can be standalone titles that you only publish during the holidays. That’s the magic of the holidays!

And this means that any type of podcast can have some festive fun!

So check out our 10 holiday-inspired podcast episode ideas to bring a little holiday flavor to your podcast.

1. Find a Holiday Angle to Your Content

An easy way to bring some holiday flavor to your podcast is to simple find a holiday angle to your usual content.

Wellness podcasts could share strategies for handling holiday stress. (Because as much as the Holidays are about rest and relaxation, there is often a lot of stress involved! Extended family in close quarters, the pressure to find the right gifts, or the anxiety to get all the food “just right” can be totally overwhelming!)

Foodie podcasts can inspire with some great holiday dishes, and business podcasts could over how to handle business aspects over the festive period.

I’ve even heard true-crime podcasts sharing holiday-themed crime stories! No matter your niche, I’m pretty sure you could find a holiday angle to your content. And it’s a great way to add a little holiday flare to your episodes.

2. Share Holiday Traditions

Next up, another way bring some festive cheer to your podcast over the holidays is to share your holiday traditions.

Do you have a Holiday Fun List you work through? Do you watch every new Christmas movie? Or do you revisit a family favorite every December?

Do have particular foods you only eat over the holidays? Do you wear matching pajamas as you roast chestnuts on an open fire? (I dunno really how that’s done, but that’s what the song says?)

Tell your listeners all about it in your holiday-themed podcast episodes, complete with some holiday-centric music and sound effects!

This is a great way to add some fun and nostalgia to your podcast without having to structure the episode in any particular format. It can make for some great holiday listening. But it’s also a fun way to allow your listeners to get to know you a little better.

And so, even though you’re not sharing your “usual content”, these types of fun holiday episodes can help you strengthen the relationship between you and your listeners.

And that’s a real win-win!

3. Listener Input

Alternatively, another idea for holiday-themed podcast episodes is to ask your listeners to share their holiday traditions with you!

Reach out to your audience through your newsletter, your social media, or even your podcast episodes leading up to the holidays, and ask them to share their holiday traditions with you.

Ask them to share their absolute favorite….or their absolute worst!….traditions they do (or are forced to take part in!) over the Holiday Season.

I know if one of my favorite podcast hosts made this request of me, I would totally be on board! Not to mention the added perk of potentially getting featured on one of their holiday episodes! How fun!

This is another great way to build your relationship with your listeners and strengthen your podcast community. So even though you’re deviating from your usual content or your typical format, you will still be taking great strides to achieving your podcasting goals.

4. Explore Holiday History

How did we come to roast chestnuts on an open flame? Why is that so quintessentially “Christmas-y”?

I still don’t know the answer to that. But you could find out and share it with your listeners!

Because our next idea for holiday-themed podcast episodes is to delve into the history of some holiday traditions. You could explore the origins of some of your family traditions, find out how some of the most popular traditions came to be, or you could even go down the rabbit hole and find some of the most bizarre holiday traditions from around the world and share their backstories with your listeners.

These types of episodes can make for great holiday listening. And who knows, listening to your holiday histories might just become some of your listeners’ holiday traditions!

5. Share Holiday-Inspired Stories

Who doesn’t love a feel-good story? But they’re particularly magical during the most wonderful time of the year!

So our next holiday-themed podcast episode idea is sharing some holiday-inspired stories. Be it fictional or fact, feel-good stories have a way of warming hearts, especially over the festive period.

Share your favorite holiday stories, or let your friends and family have a turn on the mic by getting them to share some of their favorite holiday tales.

This could also be an opportunity to ask your listeners to send in their favorite Holiday stories and memories. Again, this can help add a new dynamic to your show while helping you maintain strong relationships with your listeners.

6. Unpack This Year’s Christmas Movie Offerings

The movie industry knows how much we love the holidays! And they totally capitalize on that through their Holiday Movie offerings every year. (Here’s a list of some of the new options for 2022!)

I’m certainly not complaining. I love a good Christmas movie as much as the next person. But let’s be honest, they’re not all good! But sharing your reviews of even the worst of lot could definitely make for good podcast content!

You don’t have to be a movie critic or the host of a film-focused podcast to do a little movie reviewing on your podcast. Remember, it’s the holidays after all!

And if you’re going to be having Christmas movie marathons, why not get some great podcast content out of it, too!

7. Re-Share Listener Favorites

You can also use the holidays as a time to take a podcast break. But if you’re still wanting to keep your podcast going, you could use the holidays as a time to share some of your fan favorite episodes.

The holidays are a time of year when people tend to watch reruns and revisit old favorites. Whether it’s The Santa Clause, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Holiday, or even Mr Bean’s infamous “Merry Christmas, Mr Bean, ” we tend to love a heavy dose of nostalgia during the holidays.

With that in mind, another great episode idea for the holidays is to share reruns of some of your favorite episodes from the year.

Head over to comments, or take a look back at the fan feedback you received this past year to find out which episodes really stood out to your listeners. And use these as re-runs over the holidays. (Just be sure to communicate this to your audience, so they are aware of what’s going on!)

A great idea is to create “extended versions” of these episodes, and share these over the holidays. Add some of the questions or content you cut the first time round.

Then even if your listeners have heard the episode before, they’ll keep listening to hear what’s been added.

8. Blooper Reels

Have you held on to some of your best bloopers from the past year? Great! Then you’re ready for our next idea for holiday episodes…blooper reels!

Compile all those hilarious bloopers and your best outtakes into an episode or two for some comedy gold! Again, these make for some fun listening, especially while you’re cooking up a storm or stringing lights on a tree. But they’re also a super way to strengthen the bond between you and your listeners.

So even though on the surface, you’re providing your listeners with a couple of good laughs, you’re also building your community in a really fun, authentic way, and this is gold in the world of podcasting!

Bonus Tip!

This tip applies both to Idea 7 and 8. If these are idea you know you’re going to want to run with in the future, you can start collecting the content you are going to need throughout the year. That way, these holiday episodes will be that much easier to pull together when the end of the year rolls around, especially if you’re going to be taking a break over the festive period.

9. Throw A Virtual Party

You could also use the Holidays as a time to throw a virtual Holiday Party! You may be taking a podcast break over the festive season, but why not end your podcasting year with a bang by hosting a holiday-themed virtual party for you and your listeners?

This could be a paid event, or a free-for-all, but either way, it could be a really fun way to connect with your audience before the new year rolls around. (Or, BONUS IDEA! Ring the New Year in together with a virtual New Years part?!)

Have a festive dress code, or have everyone sign in with their ugliest Christmas sweater, plan a few games or interactive segments, and celebrate the holiday season with your own holiday party!

Who knows, this could also become a new fan-favorite holiday tradition!

10. Go Off-Script

And finally, Idea Number 10 for your holiday-themed podcast episodes, go off-script…

What do we mean by that exactly? Well, is there a topic you’ve always cover but doesn’t quite “fit” in your usual episode offerings? Or perhaps you’ve wanted to try your hand at another podcast format “just for fun”? Well, then go off-script for your holiday-themed podcast episodes!

That’s the magic of the Holidays! It gives you some leeway to try something new, have a little less structure, and just have a little festive fun!

The holiday season is the perfect time to try something new or out of the ordinary! Just remember to always be clear with your audience about what’s going on. Let them know your episodes will look and sound a little different over the festive season. Be clear in your titles and show notes that these episodes are out of the ordinary or are specifically “for the holidays”.

Do this, and we’re sure you’ll find these special holiday-themed podcast episodes actually strengthen your podcast community!

Related read: How To Host A Successful Virtual Podcast Event

Conclusion

The holidays are a great time to add some extra fun and excitement to your podcast episodes! By following the tips above, you can create holiday episodes that are both enjoyable and engaging for your listeners.

These ideas for holiday-themed podcast episodes allow you to have a little fun as the end of the year approaches, but also provides you the opportunity to serve your audience and connect with them in a new way. So even if a holiday episode veers off your usual podcast path, it can still help you achieve your podcasting goals.

So hang up the holly, and deck your soundproofed walls, and spread some holiday cheer on your podcast this year!

February flew by in a flash! But we can’t say “Goodbye!” to the month of love without showing ourselves a little love…

Why?

Because February just so happens to be our birthday month! We Edit Podcasts turns seven this year! Seven! Talk about time flying by!

And what a grand seven years it’s been! Of course, there’s been many ups and downs, but we’re happy to say that the ups far outweigh the downs, and we’ve loved being able to serve our clients for the last seven years.

We’ve also loved being part of such an incredible industry! The podcasting space is a really special place, and we’re so excited to see how much it’s grown and developed in such a relatively short span of time. And we can’t wait to see all the growth that will continue to happen as more and more people fall in love with the podcast medium.

And while we haven’t had time for a big birthday bash – we’ve been a little busy with some super cool projects we have brewing in the pipeline – we couldn’t let the opportunity for a little celebration to pass us by.

So, in honor of our 7th birthday, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to look back at some of our favorite posts over the years.

1. Top 16 Guides to Help You Start Your Podcast

Industry experience has shown that there are countless benefits to starting a podcast, and that it can lead to growing your business through loyal fans and increased interaction with your target audience.

Building a successful podcast takes a lot of hard-work and commitment through the process. However, as Pat Flynn says “Setting up a podcast is not push-button easy, but it’s not rocket science either!”

If time and effort are put in to your show, your audience will grow, your business will grow and your revenue too. So, let’s look at the top 16 guides to help you start your own podcast.

Read more…

2. 21 Things To Do Before You Hit Record

Some podcasters need little-to-no prep time before diving into the recording of an episode, while others need a routine to get their mind clear of cobwebs and ready to record. Fatigue, a lack of comfort, distractions, and a disruption of routine can all lead to a poor podcasting performance. Now the following list may not be exactly what you need to get in your podcast groove, but you might get a few ideas of new things to try if you just don’t feel comfortable yet! These 21 tips can not only help you in your podcasting but can also aid in improving overall mental and physical health. Check it out, and see which ones help you!

Read more…

3. 17 Storytelling Podcasts To Binge-Listen

Everyone loves a good story; whether it be by movie, book, or, maybe not as popular but just as entertaining, by podcast. In the age of binge watching series on Netflix, comes the medium of podcasting where stories can be told to listeners while driving, running, working out, or relaxing at home. Today we bring you some of our favorite story telling podcasts for your binge-watching enjoyment!

Read more…

4. 11 Steps For Attracting New Podcast Listeners

Every podcast has the goal of growing both in quality and in quantity. Your listener base is what determines your show’s success. So naturally, a big listener base means a more successful show. However, not every podcast is destined for immediate success, in which case groundwork is required! There are a few very effective methods available for you to use that will assist in growing your podcast’s listener base!

Read more…

5. Why You Should Care About Your Podcast Launch

So why should you care about your podcast launch? To make sure you get the most out of all the hard work you put in and give your listeners the incredible content they were looking to find! Keep in mind, even if you have the most successful podcast launch, it might take some time to gain the traction you were looking for. So use your podcast launch as a springboard to set the precedent for what listeners can expect going forward, consistently showing up for them in every way you first set out to! 

Now that we’ve established that your podcast launch is important, let’s dig in a little deeper!

Read more…

6. 8 Top Interview Softwares for Recording Your Podcast Remotely

If you haven’t recorded a remote interview before then the first time might be challenging. But no matter the challenges it shouldn’t stop you from recording high-quality content!

Now the biggest question you’ll have is what are the top recording software and what makes them unique to suit your podcasting needs? 

To help answer this question, we’ve put together a list of the top 8 software for recording your podcast remotely.

Read more…

7. How to Get More People to Actually Listen to Your Podcast

One of the biggest goals most podcasters have is to actually get more people to listen to their show. But how do you do this in a sea of podcasts, especially when you’re just starting out or your podcast just hasn’t taken off like you had expected it to? 

Often times it’s a combination of a few different strategies rather than one single thing that’s holding your podcast back from reaching its potential. It can be anything from low discoverability to a lack of personalization. Whatever it might be, it is time for you to review your podcast and see what changes you can make to expand your audience reach. 

There are a few things you can do to help persuade more people to take the time and listen. So let’s take a look at a few key things to consider.

Read more…

8. 10 Editing Tips to Increase Your Podcast Sound Quality

Any podcaster will tell you that what you’re really after, before you’ve built a strong podcast community around your show, and have gathered loyal listeners who eagerly await each new episode to drop, is a podcast that sounds amazing. High-quality audio is essential to a successful podcast, but great-sounding audio doesn’t just happen. There is a lot that happens behind the scenes in order to produce a stand-out show. We’re talking about the editing process. 

Expert editing can be the difference between a great show and an absolutely amazing show, but it can be a time-consuming endeavor, and you may not feel like you have the skill set you need to really do the job well. Enter, this post, which aims to equip you with some handy editing tips and tricks to help you improve the sound quality of your podcast. And because we only want to give you the absolute BEST editing advice, we’ve had our team of expert podcast sound engineers share their ultimate 10 editing tips to help amp up your podcast sound quality. Get your notebook, your iPad, your bullet journal, or whatever you use for serious note-taking ready – you’re going to want to write these tips down!

Read more…

9.  How to Find New Topics For Your Podcast Episodes

We’ve all heard of writer’s block, and we’re all familiar with runners hitting that dreaded sticking point known as “The Wall”, but what happens when podcasters hit their own invisible barrier and can’t seem to find the needed inspiration to plan more content? And in all honesty, we’re not necessarily headphone laden Da Vinci’s in search of our own personal Mona Lisas! Don’t get me wrong, smiling muses are great and all, but our needs are much more simple – we just need reliable sources of inspo for our podcast episodes.

If you’re with me, and have found yourself in a creative drought at some point in your journey, let today’s article serve as a cool cup of water in the barren desert of ideas as we discuss 3 simple ways to find new topics for your podcast episodes.

Read more…

10. 13 Free Tools for Starting a Podcast on a Budget

So, you want to start a podcast? GREAT! But you’re on a budget? No problem! Creating a high-quality podcast on a budget is a totally-achievable goal! 

We’ve got you covered with amazing tools to help you make your podcasting dream a reality for the high cost of free! Yip! We’re sharing 13 top free tools to help you succeed each step of the way on your podcasting journey!

There’s no time (or money!) to waste! Let’s get right to it!

Read more…

11. 21 of the Best Podcast Directories of 2021

Ever wondered how podcasts get from the podcast host to your ears? Through some cool technology and the use of podcast directories! 

But there are a lot of options available! How do you know which directory you should be using for your podcast? And how many should you be using? To help give you a little more clarity on the subject, we’re sharing this list featuring 21 of the top podcast directories in 2021.

Now onto the list!

Read more…

12. 10 Bad Habits to Break to Take Your Show to the Next Level

Today, we’re talking about bad habits…and I don’t mean that catchy tune by the musical maestro who is Ed Sheeran.

The problem with bad habits is often, we don’t actually know we have them…until they’re pointed out to us. Either by a close friend, a motivational speaker, or sometimes, unfortunately in the case of podcast hosting, by our critics…

The great news is that bad habits can be dropped like, well, a bad habit! And this post is here to help you do just that. We’re sharing the 10 most common bad habits we see podcast hosts struggle with.

Use these to evaluate yourself and your podcast, and you can then make the necessary adjustments to redirect your podcast on the path marked, “Success”!

Read more…

13. 18 of the Best Podcast Newsletters for 2022

Podcast newsletters are an incredible resource for anyone in the podcasting industry. What could be better than thought-provoking articles, breaking news, and insight on industry developments sent straight to your inbox?

So, if you’re seeking great podcast recommendations or simply want to stay up to date with what’s going on in the podcast world, keep reading! We’ve got all this and then some!

In this post, we’ll share some of the greatest podcasting newsletters you should subscribe to in order to receive the newest episodes and stay up to date on all things podcasting.

Read more…

In Closing

What a ride it’s been! We’re so thankful to all our clients over the years, and to all the friendships we’ve formed along the way! And we can’t wait to see what the next trip around the sun has in store!

So, Happy Birthday, We Edit Podcasts! And here’s to many more!

From microphones and headphones to software and subscriptions, gadgets, merch, and more, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for the podcasting people in your life.

Check these out!

1. Gear

For the newbie, would-be, or long-time pro podcast hosts, new podcasting gear is always a great gift! There are the basics for those just starting out, or you could invest in a grand upgrade if you’re wanting to go all out for the occasion!

Here are our top gear gift suggestions.

Microphones

For those just starting out, an entry level mic would make a superb gift. USB mics are great because you simply plug that baby into a laptop, and you’re ready to go!

Popular choices when it comes to USB mics are the ATR2100 or the Blue Yeti. And there’s also the Blue Snowball Ice, which comes in at a lower price point. These mics offer great quality at relatively inexpensive prices so they won’t break the bank.

If you’re looking to really spoil your gift recipient, then you could look at upgrading their mic situation with  the Rode NT-USB Mini Condenser Microphone or the Shure SM58. These are great options if someone is looking to take their podcasting to the next level.

Earphones and Headphones

A pair of earphones is a great gift for podcast fans and podcast creators alike.

A good pair of earphones or earbuds make the podcast listening experience infinitely better! But they’re also perfect for the recording process. And so any quality earphones would make an awesome gift!

But a pair of quality headphones are also an asset, besides helping the podcast host look the part! Two popular headphones amongst podcasters are theAudio Technica ATH-M30x and the Sony MDR-7506.

Other Gear Options

There are also some other gear options that could make for great gifts.

• Mic stands – mic stands help podcasters capture great audio. Different mics have different “sweet spots” and mic stands can help make sure you’re always getting the best from your mic.
• Pop filters – pop filters are a great addition to any podcast set up. They can totally eliminate the popping sound that often happens when speaking into a microphone, making those recordings even better!
• Vlogging kit – this is a fun gift if the podcaster is thinking of branching into video podcasting! A simple vlogging kit could be the perfect gift to get them started.

2. Start-to-Finish Podcast Packages

Wouldn’t a start-to-finish podcast package make the perfect gift? Yes! Yes, it would! And it just so happens We Edit Podcasts, RØDE Microphones, and Spreaker, together with Staples have this on offer!

The package includes a RØDE NT-USB Mini Mic, a free editing-only trial episode from We Edit Podcasts, and one free year of Spreaker Podcast Hosting Services! It really has got everything a would-be podcast host needs to launch their very own show. What a great gift!

The start-to-finish podcasting package is available at select Staples US Retail Locations and retails for $109. For more, follow this link.

3. Subscriptions

Subscriptions are an often over-looked gift idea! But they’re a great option because there are so many options!

If you’re looking for gifts for podcast listeners, subscriptions to premium content on their favorite podcast app would always be a winner! Subscriptions or gift cards to Spotify or Stitcher Premium, Luminary, or Wondery Plus, or to any of the subscription offers available on Apple Podcasts would definitely be a welcome gift!

For the podcast host, why not gift subscriptions to services that will help them take their show to the next level! Whether that’s hosting services from Buzzsprout, show notes and editing services from us at We Edit Podcasts, remote recording services from SquadCast, or even a subscription to Headliner or a similar platform for the ability to create unlimited audiograms, any of these would be a really thoughtful, and much-appreciated gift!

4. Courses

Skill developing and building courses are another totally under-utilized gift idea! Sites like Udemy, Skillshare, or Coursera offer courses on almost everything under the sun! So you’ll have so many options to pick from.

You could focus on podcast-related skills and buy a course for audio or video editing, content writing, or even the basics of blogging or search engine optimization. These may be skills the podcaster wants to develop and hone, and giving these courses as a gift is a great way to get the ball rolling.

But you could also look at personal development courses. There are those that guide you in building good time management skills, ones that help you get organized, ones that show you how to prioritize your schedule and boost your productivity, and there are even courses available which focus on helping you develop good habits and practice healthy self-care. All of which would make for thoughtful gifts.

NOTE: Before purchasing a course or online training program, be sure to do your due diligence by checking what others have said about the course. There are far too many courses promising the world, but which totally fail to deliver. So be sure to read reviews before purchasing these for your loved ones.

5. Podcast Newsletters

Here’s a fun, and a little out-of-the-box gift idea for the podcast hosts in your life…get their podcast on podcast newsletters! There are a whole load of really excellent podcast recommendation newsletters, like EarBuds Podcast Collective, Find That Pod, or Podcast Delivery all of which are great options. Find out how you can submit your loved one’s podcast, and you can surprise them with a mention on an upcoming newsletter.

You could also look into purchasing an advertising spot on podcast industry newsletters like Podnews or the Podcast Business Journal. This is a really thoughtful way to promote their podcast, and a great way to turn your gift into a super surprise!

6. Tickets to Podcast Events

The podcast industry knows how to throw some pretty cool events! And so it follows that tickets to these events would make amazing gifts for your podcasting loved ones!

Again, this is a great gift option for podcast listeners and podcast hosts alike, as there are so many events for each side of the line.

For podcast creators, you could go big and get tickets to arguably the biggest podcast conference of them all, Podcast Movement, which is an incredible conference geared towards helping podcast creators and hosts connect with others in the industry and learn from some of the best in the business. But there are many other options with a range of ticket prices.

To find out more, check out this post: Podcast Events 2022 Part 1: January to June.

For podcast fans, individual podcasts are also often hosting their own events for their listeners! You can attend live recordings of episodes, meet-and-greets with the hosts of your favorite shows, as well as interactive Q&A sessions where you can really get to interact with your favorite hosts.

Make a list of their favorite shows, and do some Internet snooping to find out if any of their top podcasts are hosting live events in the near future. Tickets to these would be a really fantastic gift, on Valentine’s Day, or on any other occasion!

There are also some cool events, such as Crime Con, which, if True Crime podcasts are a firm favorite, tickets to this would be an awesome gift.

7. Podcast Merch

And for our last gift idea? Merch! Who doesn’t love podcast merch! So many much-loved podcasts have now started selling some really fantastic apparel, especially for their devoted followers! This is a fantastic method to show your support for some of your favorite podcasts, while presenting some unique presents! 

There are sites set up specifically for podcasters to share their wares. Podswag has loads of amazing products from so many amazing podcasts! If you’re looking for an amazing podcast-related gift, Podswag will definitely have it! There is also Redbubble, a site where products are designed and sold by artists, which is another great site for unique podcast-centric gifts.

But besides these e-commerce sites, many podcasts have merch for sale via their podcast’s website. If you know the podcasts your intended gift recipient loves, then a little more of that Internet snooping is in order to find out if they have some super cool merch you can give as a super cool gift on any occasion.

Closing Thoughts

For Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or those “just because” gifts, this list has you covered! These gift ideas perfect for the podcast host or the podcast enthusiast in your life…or for yourself because there’s nothing that says you can’t give yourself great podcast gifts!

For those podcast people in your life, these gifts are the perfect way to show you care about their passions, and with the vast range of options available, you’ll have gift-giving sorted for many occasions to come!

And while you didn’t start your podcast for the sole purpose of obtaining accolades, victories, or fame, it would certainly be wonderful to receive that kind of appreciation for all the hard work you put into your show.

Aside from the confidence boost of knowing that all your hard work is appreciated and valued, an award-winning podcast can also open many doors!

So, if this sounds like it might be what you’re looking for for your show, check out this list featuring some of the top podcast awards programs, and learn how you can get your show on those all-important nominee lists! 

1. The iHeart Radio Podcast Awards

The first podcast awards event taking place this year is the iHeart Radio Podcast Awards, which is happening February 3rd, 2022.

The nominees in most of the categories are selected by a judging panel “comprised of blue-ribbon podcast industry leaders, creatives and visionaries,” according to iHeartMedia, but it’s the fans who decide which show will take home the prize for Podcast of the Year.

You can check out this year’s full list of nominees and the over 30 different categories here. Then keep an eye on their website for all the info on how your show can land on the next set of lists!

This year’s ceremony can be viewed on YouTube or Facebook or listened to on @iheartradio.

2. The Webby Awards

The Webby Awards honors excellence in 7 major media types: Websites, Video, Advertising, Media & PR, Social, Apps, Mobile, & Voice, Games, and, importantly in light of this list, Podcasts. 

There are a number of podcast-focused categories, and within each category, there are two prizes up for grabs – one is the Webby Winner, selected by the members of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and the other is the People’s Voice, selected by the voting public. 

There is a submission fee involved, but anyone is able to submit their show. Submissions for this year have been extended and will now close on February 11th, 2022.

You can submit your podcast here.

3. The People’s Choice Podcast Award

The People’s Choice Podcast Awards – more commonly known as The Podcast Awards – is one of the longest-running podcast award programs. As the name suggests, The People’s Choice Podcast Award celebrates podcasts nominated by their audiences and is open to shows from all over the world, regardless of country of origin or language. 

The registration period for podcasters opens up on February 1st and you can register your podcast here. There are a wide variety of categories available, and 10 new categories have been added for this year’s awards.

The awards ceremony, which takes the format of a live video broadcast, is set to take place in September, as it coincides with International Podcast Day. You can register, check out all the rules, see the award period timeline, and acquire all other important information on The Podcast Awards official website. 

4. The Ambies

The Ambies are the Podcast Academy’s awards program for celebrating excellence in audio. And one of the main aims of the Ambies is “to honor podcasts as a unique and personal medium for entertainment, information, storytelling, and expression.” There are a grand total of 164 Ambies nominees spanning 23 categories, which highlight the talent both in front of and behind the mic.

Production companies, individual producers and creators, as well as distributors of a podcast series are eligible for entry, provided they published at least 3 episodes during the designated period.

The submissions for this year have closed, but you can check out the 2022 nominee announcement which will be taking place mid-February. Take a look at the categories here, and get your show ready for next year’s nominee submission.

The 2022 ceremony is presented by Wondery and will be hosted by Ross Mathews and Nikki Boyer. It will be streamed live on March 22 on YouTube and Twitch.

5. The Peabody Awards

The Peabody Awards exist to recognize when storytelling is done well; when stories matter. And so while these awards are not solely for podcasts, the podcast medium has been recognized and awarded these prestigious story-telling awards. In fact, there have been four phenomenal podcasts that have been recognized as Peabody winners.  Dolly Parton’s America by WNYC Studios, Montana Public Radio’s Threshold: The Refuge, APM Reports’ In The Dark (which has been awarded two Peabodys!), and BBC Sounds’ Have You Heard George’s Podcast?

The 2021 cycle saw eight podcasts nominated for this prestigious award. You can see all the winners and their acceptance speeches here.

The nominees and winners must be unanimously chosen by the board of jurors, after an intense judging process.

NOTE: The last three podcast award programs are location specific.

6. The British Podcast Awards

The British Podcast Awards honors podcasts and podcasters who produce their show in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, or whose content is specifically designed for UK audiences.

The British Podcast Awards 2022 will open for entries on 1st March 2022 and full details will appear nearer the time so be sure to check in on any updates on their website, or sign up to their newsletter. You can also familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations here.

There is an entry fee required for your submission, but all the details can be on the website. The nominees and eventual winner in each category are selected by an independent panel of judges, except the Listener’s Choice Award. The Listener’s Choice Award, voted for by listeners of British podcasts, will open when nominations are announced in June and all UK podcasts will be automatically entered.

7. The Irish Podcast Awards

The Irish Podcast Awards celebrates brilliant Irish podcasts. It is an independent awards program and is not aligned to any particular company. Entries open in March 2022, with nominees being announced in July, 2022. The ceremony is set to take place in September.

IPAs will be open to all Irish podcasters. The nominees will be judged by a judging panel consisting of professionals from all across the Irish audio and media sector and podcast companies from across the world. As well as the main judged awards, there is also the Listeners’ Choice category where listeners can vote for any Irish podcast. 

There will be more information, including the categories and entry process coming soon, so regularly check the website or subscribe to the mailing list so that you’re always in-the-know.

8. The Australian Podcast Awards

The Australian Podcast Awards is a celebration of podcasts for Australia by Australians. The entries for these awards are all self-nominated, and there are over 20 categories up for awards. Entries come from independent podcasters, broadcasters, the business community, as well as students and non-profit organisations. The judges usually consist of a panel of podcasting experts, with podcast listeners eligible to vote for The Listener’s Choice Award. 

There is currently no information available for the 2022 awards, but if you’re an Australian-based podcast, keep an eye on the website, or sign up for their newsletter, so that you’re in the loop when the doors open for this year’s entries.

For some inspiration, here’s the list of 2021 winners.

The Australian Podcast Awards works alongside the British Podcast Awards and Irish Podcast Awards to share best practice and to promote local podcasting.

NOTE: There are a few other awards programs for podcasts which have taken place in previous years, such as The Discover Pods Awards, and The Audio Verse Awards. As of yet, no information for the 2022 cycle is available. We will update this list accordingly should new dates be released. But it is advised to sign up to any available newsletters in order to stay up to date with the latest developments.

In Conclusion

Winning a podcast award was probably not your top reason for starting your podcast, but it may be one of the long-term goals you’ve set for yourself and your show.

And besides all the opportunities an award-winning podcast may bring your way, it’s also just feels really good to receive appreciation for your hard work.

Taking part in podcast award programs, even if your show doesn’t come out on top, is also just a great way to gain more exposure for your show, reach a wider audience, and expand your podcasting network.

Check out the awards programs we’ve mentioned, see which ones your podcast qualifies for, and get your shows nominated! You really have nothing to lose and everything to gain!

Related read:

But in all seriousness! We’re super excited for the year! We’ve dreamed up some big goals and we’re rearing to get started!

But what we’re really excited about is all that we predict (and hope!) will be taking place in the podcasting space this year!

Keep reading to find out just what we’re most looking forward to as we head into all 2022 has in store!

1. Our Birthday!

The first big thing of 2022 that we’re super excited about is our birthday, which happens in February. Yes, it’s a little ways off, but we can’t wait! It’s always a treat using our big day to reflect back on all that has happened since our last birthday celebration. We always come away with deep feelings of gratitude for all the opportunities we’ve had and all the cool people we’ve met along the way.

There’s also the possibility of some other cool celebratory things happening so watch this space! (And sign up to our newsletter if you haven’t done so already you can stay-up-to-date and in the know!) There will also be cake! And that in itself is enough to get excited about!

2. The Launching of New Podcasts

We say this every year, but that’s because we’re so excited by ‘it’ every year! A new year means the launching of new podcasts! And I don’t know about you, but I cannot wait to find out all the new podcast creators we’ll meet along the way.

And if the offerings of 2021 are anything to go by, 2022 is going to be an epic year for podcasts! 2021 brought some stellar shows to our ears! We made a whole list of 21 shows that grabbed our attention last year.

In case you missed these podcasts, check out our list here: 21 Of The Best Podcasts Of 2021…So Far!

3. The Development of Cool, New Tech

Just what that ‘cool, new tech’ is going to be we have no idea, but that’s what makes this one so exciting! Who knows what awesome tech especially for the audio space is going to be launched in 2022? We can’t wait to find out!

Within the last year and a bit, we’ve seen the rise of social audio, witnessed Apple Podcasts’ glam-up, and watched podcast-focused platforms like Podchaser find new ways to push the listener experience and the podcasting industry as a whole, forward. And the myriad of podcast hosting sites are all working on ways to enhance the quality of podcast episodes by creating ways for hosts to seamlessly produce excellent audio and give the listener so much more.

Let’s see what happens in 2022!

4. A Greater Push Towards High-Quality Podcasts

We’re talking both in terms of audio production as well as the content itself. As podcasts continue to cement themselves as a valuable source of entertainment, information, and engagement, listeners will become more and more discerning of what they lend their ears to.

And this means that podcast creators will have to consistently be pushing themselves to create podcast episodes that are worthy of their audience’s attention. And this means that high-quality podcasts will be in abundance!

The only negative to this will be finding the time to check out all these top-notch shows!

5. Exciting Projects

We’re already brainstorming some big projects for 2022! And let me tell ya, we’re excited! We love all the motivation and momentum a new year brings and we love seeing the Trello boards fill up with possibilities!

We’ve got big dreams and fun plans in the pipeline and we can’t wait to share them with you! But for now, we’ll just say, “Watch this space!”

6. More Podcasts Brought to Life On-Screen

A very cool thing happened in 2021! Apple TV+ brought the much-loved podcast The Shrink Next Door to life in an eight-part series. Starring Will Ferrel and Paul Rudd, it was a real treat to see this unbelievably true story brought visually to life.

And with the success of The Shrink Next Door, as well as offerings like The Thief Next Door, we think more production companies will start looking at podcasts for inspiration when it comes to finding new scripts and stories they want to bring to life on screen. Just think of some of your favorite podcasts…now imagine them brought to life in a binge-worthy series! Exciting, right!?

7. Podcasting in Mainstream Media

We love to see podcasting playing a big role in mainstream media! And we think 2022 will be podcasting’s time to shine!

In 2021, we saw the legendary Steve Martin and Martin Short team with the Selena Gomez to bring us Only Murders in the Building. The three all play true-crime podcast fanatics who use their love of the podcast genre to solve a real-life murder! Podcasts have a starring role in the movie, and we think we will see tons more of this in the new year.

8. More Podcasting Celebs

We are pretty certain more celebrities will launch their own podcasts in 2022. (Although we’re not sure who’s left? Tom Cruise?) 2021 saw the likes of Meghan Trainor, Lindsay Lohan, and Seth Rogan throw their hats in the podcasting ring. But that’s not exactly what we’re excited about…

What we’re excited to see…ahem…hear is actors exercising their acting chops on scripted podcasts! There have been some pretty perfect voice performances to date. Demi Moore in Dirty Diana, Rami Malek in the thriller series Blackout, or the voice-acting ace Richard Armitage who brings two seasons of Wolverine to life are just some of the examples of the audio magic that happens when acting greats lend their talents to our ears. Here’s us hoping that this year brings us many more such pairings!

9. Greater Urgency to Make Podcasts More Accessible

We also think there will be a great push towards making podcasts more accessible and inclusive.

Do you remember last year’s cautionary tale of SiriusXM lawsuit? We think that this will spur forth podcast hosts to do their duty in making podcasts accessible to as many people as possible.

Whether that’s simply providing show notes, or using tech to offer subtitles in real-time, or any way really that you can make your podcast and your overall brand stand out, the need for accessibility and inclusion in the audio space is a must! And we’re excited to see more and more podcast hosts taking the steps to make their podcasts accessible to as many people as possible!

10. The Podcast Community Continue to Grow

Lastly, one of the things we’re most excited for this year is the growth of the podcasting community.

We love being a part of this community! Why? Well, the reasons could fill a post on its own. But right at the top would be the people. The podcast community is full of some incredibly talented, passionate people. And this fact is a large part of what makes the podcasting industry such an exciting place to be.

While we all play different roles, we love the fact that, overall, there is a collective drive to push the industry forward, to maintain the integrity of the medium, and to always strive for the highest quality when it comes to content as well as audio production. And this it amazing because it means we’re a part of a community that keeps pushing us to up our game!

And we can’t wait to rise to that occasion in 2022!

We love being a part of this industry. And we can’t wait to see the bonds strengthen and the community grow overall in this next trip around the sun!

Closing Thoughts

2022 promises to be a big year for podcasts and the podcasting industry as a whole. And we’re so excited to be a part of the action! We really can’t wait to see all that the year holds, the new podcasts that will be launched, and the developments that will be made!

Stick with us, and you’ll have a front-row seat to all that 2022 has in store for the podcasting industry! We’re so excited to see all that this year holds!

What are you most excited to see happen in the podcasting space this year? Share with us! We’d love to hear about it!

Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, or just love giving your loved ones some holiday cheer, a thoughtful gift is guaranteed to bring joy.

But what do you do if the gift recipient is a passionate podcast host or a die-hard podcast enthusiast?

Don’t worry, we have got your back! We have compiled a list of 12 awesome gifts podcasters and podcast listeners will love.

There is something on this list for everyone! And not only will the gift receivers love their new podcast wares, but you’ll secure the bragging rights of Best Gift Giver for another year running!

Podcast Hosts and Podcast Enthusiasts

First up, here are some ideas for little gifts for podcasters and podcast lovers alike!

1. Earphones

A pair of fancy headphones are great, but they’re not a “must-have” podcasting item. A pair of quality, entry-level earphones or earbuds will do the trick. And what better way for podcast enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite shows than through a pair of earphones gifted to them by someone they love! A winner for sure!

2. Premium Subscriptions

You can give the gift of ad-free listening and premium content to the podcast people in your life this Holiday Season! Platforms like Apple Podcast Subscriptions, Spotify, Stitcher Premium, Luminary, and Wondery Plus all offer subscriptions which gets you access to all your favorite shows (ad-free, did we mention that already?) and often also lets you hear new episodes before they’re available anywhere else. Subscriptions or gift cards to any of the above make for excellent gifts.

3. Fun Podcast Merch

Do you know what makes for a great gift no matter the holiday? Podcast merch! In case you didn’t know, so many amazing podcasts have started selling some incredibly fun things! Besides being a way to support these creators, we think podcast merch makes for some really special gifts! 

Don’t know where to start your hunt? Don’t worry! Sites like Podswag have been created as hubs from which podcasters can share their wares with their audience.  They’ve got merch from some top podcasts so you should definitely be able to find some great gifts.

Think coffee mugs, t-shirts, hoodies, stickers and so much more, you’ll definitely find some cool gifts if you look in the podcast merch department!

For Podcast Hosts

Now let’s look at some Holiday gift ideas for the podcast hosts in your life…or for yourself…there are no rules against that!

Equipment

If you’re looking for a gift for someone whose been talking about starting a podcast for the longest time, then gifting them some podcasting equipment is the perfect way to help them turn their dream into a reality!

And if you’re gift hunting for a podcast pro, these are great options for them too! You can’t go wrong with some great podcast gear!

4. Microphones

Without a mic, there would be no podcast! And so it’s the perfect gift for the soon-to-be podcaster! Popular choices include the ATR2100 or the Blue Yeti, due to their quality as well as their relatively inexpensive price points. If you’re looking for something in a lower price range, check out the Blue Snowball Ice.

Kicking it up a notch, the Rode NT-USB Mini Condenser Microphone or the Shure SM58 are great options.

5. Headphones

While it’s true that a pair of quality earphones will do the trick when it comes to recording a podcast, headphones are still a popular choice for many podcasters. Not to mention they help you look and feel the part of a podcasting pro!

Two popular headphones amongst podcasters are the Audio Technica ATH-M30x and the Sony MDR-7506.

6. Mic Stands

A mic stand is another gift to spoil podcasters this Holiday season! Mic stands can help the podcaster consistently capture the best audio by ensuring that the mic is always set up to deliver in its “sweet spot.”

7. Pop Filters

Pop filters are great tools for enhancing audio quality as they help to reduce or totally eliminate the popping sound that often happens when speaking into a microphone. They can really help elevate the overall sound quality, but are often not something new podcasters purchase for themselves when they’re just starting out, making them a great gift idea!

8. Start-To-Finish Podcast Package

We Edit Podcasts, RØDE Microphones, and Spreaker, together with Staples, may have the perfect gift option for the special podcaster in your life this Holiday season. Earlier this year saw the launch of our new, all-inclusive podcasting starter bundle, especially for podcast hosts.

The package includes a RØDE NT-USB Mini Mic, a free editing-only trial episode from We Edit Podcasts, and one free year of Spreaker Podcast Hosting Services! It really has got everything a would-be podcast host needs to launch their very own show.

The start-to-finish podcasting package is available at select Staples US Retail Locations and retails for $109. For more, follow this link.

9. Software

Software to help podcast hosts streamline their podcasting process and which help them on their path to podcast success are winning gift options. One such option is Adobe Audition. This is for podcasters looking to up their editing game. Adobe Audition is probably the most well-known recording and editing software out there, and most consider this a premium option because of all the incredible features it offers when it comes to audio editing and production.

Zencaster, Iris, SquadCast, and Ringr are some other software gift ideas. All of these are great for podcast hosts who want to interview guests remotely. This software makes that possible whilst helping the podcaster still achieve high-quality audio.

10. Subscriptions and Services

Subscriptions are a fantastic, but totally under-utilized gift idea! For the podcast host, you could purchase subscriptions for skill-enhancing sites like Skillshare or Coursera which offer many courses that aim to help podcast hosts hone their skills. There are also some great podcast-focused subscriptions that could be of serious benefit to podcast hosts. Fizzle and Podcasters Paradise are two such examples that you could check out.

You could gift subscriptions to Headliner, Wavve, or Audiogram, which all help podcast hosts create eye-catching audiograms as a way to market their podcast, or Canva to help them design great social media posts.

Related read: 8 Top Resources To Create Audiograms For Excellent Social Engagement

You could also gift podcast-related services. There are plenty of options for this too! From hosting services from Buzzsprout, show notes and editing services from us at We Edit Podcasts, or remote recording services from SquadCast, all would be a welcome gift from any podcast host.

11. Courses

Another great, out-of-the-box idea for a gift for that special podcast host is the gift of knowledge! From courses that teach them to edit like the pros, to ones that help hone the art of writing compelling content, the gift of knowledge is a gift that will always keep on giving!

Platforms like Masterclass offer some amazing, high-quality courses as do sites like Udemy and Skillshare. Gifting courses is a thoughtful way to show the recipients that you’re interested in something that means so much to them and that you want them to make a success of their podcasting journey.

DID YOU KNOW! We have have our own podcast courses on Udemy! Check them out here!

12. Tickets to Podcast Events

Last up, tickets to podcast events would make totally awesome Holiday gifts! And the really great thing about this gift idea is that there are a plethora of podcast events to choose from! So no matter who you’re looking to get a gift for, you’re sure to find the perfect option.

For podcast hosts, there are some fantastic podcast conferences they can attend. Two of the bigger ones are Podcast Movement: Evolutions, which is set for March 2022, and then the Podcast Movement conference is set to take place in August.

But there are also a ton of podcast events on offer! From events specifically for fans of true-crime podcasts to events held by individual podcast hosts, you’ll definitely find a great gift option amongst these!

We’ll be sharing our Podcast Events List for 2022 in January. But if you’d like to see if 2022 tickets which are already available, check our 2021 Podcast Events posts here: Podcast Events To Look Out For In 2021 – Part I and Podcast Events To Attend In 2021 – Part 2.

Closing Thoughts

So if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the podcast host, or podcast enthusiast in your life, (or you’re just looking to get yourself the perfect gift!) then any of the gifts on this list will certainly do the trick!

However you celebrate the Holidays, it’s a couple of days where we can unwind from another crazy year, start preparing for all that the new year has in store, and they’re also a special time to spend celebrating with friends, family, and loved ones. And a thoughtful gift is one of the ways to show them a little extra love this Holiday Season.