What is a Podcast Now?

Tonight, I am diving deep into the big question that has creators, listeners, and platforms asking: "What is a podcast anymore?"

2017 Podcast Hall of Famer Rob Greenlee was LIVE on, March 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST/4pm PST, for a new episode of Live Podcast Tips Show.

"Podcasting once had a clear definition—primarily audio, video, and PDFs delivered through RSS feeds to podcatchers and mp3 players like iPods and Zunes.

However, around 2010, a strategic pivot towards audio-only content inadvertently ceded the rapidly growing video podcast space (30% of the market) to YouTube."

The Old Definition of a Podcast:

-Primarily audio shows delivered via RSS feeds, with significant early adoption of video podcasts.

-Deeply rooted in independent podcaster communities, originating from commercial and public radio.

-Slow commercialization, largely through host-read ads.

-Distribution initially targeted portable mp3 players and early podcast-specific devices.

The Shift Happening Now:

-YouTube’s dominance as the largest "podcast" platform, driven by video-first content creators.

-Spotify’s strategic shift to embrace video podcasts, blending audio and visual media.

-Expansion of podcast monetization into diverse revenue streams, including live tours, merchandise, newsletters, and social media integrations.

-Decline of radio-rooted personalities in favor of digital-native creators who bypass traditional media.

Perspectives on the Question:

-Podcasting is defined as a multi-channel storytelling medium by creators.

-Alternative terminologies are gaining popularity, such as “VODcast”, “Netcast”, "simulcast" and "video," reflecting the evolving medium.

-Creating content that is compelling whether experienced through audio or video.

-Community-building and audience engagement as foundational components.

"Rob’s personal reflection on the ongoing evolution: "I’ve been at this forever, and even I’m rethinking it."

Why This Matters:

-How defining podcasts impacts revenues and distribution across streaming platforms, events, and merchandise.

-The significant financial implications of labeling content as audio or video, especially regarding influencer marketing ($9B market) versus traditional audio podcast advertising ($2B market).

Connect with Rob Greenlee:
Adore Podcast Network: https://adorenetwork.com
Adore Creator Community: https://skool.com/adorenetwork
Website: https://robgreenlee.com
X/Twitter: https://x.com/robgreenlee
Instagram: https://instagram.com/robwgreenlee
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@robgreenlee

Watch & Listen:
Apple Podcasts Video: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-tips-with-rob-greenlee-video/id1733043511

Apple Podcasts Audio: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-tips-with-rob-greenlee-audio/id1733042908

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6zBt5KuALYO5JsewJgsfrt
Watch Video & Listen to Audio via Adore Website: https://AdoreNetwork.com

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