Are Podcasts Still Popular? Why the Medium Is More Relevant Than Ever

Are podcasts still popular in 2025? With 21M UK listeners and rising video content, podcasting is evolving—not fading. Discover why it's still one of the most powerful media formats today.

With the rise of TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and AI-generated content, some have questioned whether podcasts have had their day. Are podcasts still popular in 2025? The data—and the culture—say yes.

Over 21 million people in the UK regularly listen to podcasts, representing roughly 40% of the adult population. What’s more, podcast listenership continues to grow as more people discover the value of long-form, on-demand content.

Why Podcasts Are Still Popular Today

1. Convenience and Flexibility

Unlike live radio or scheduled programming, podcasts offer on-demand listening. You can tune in during a commute, at the gym, or while cooking dinner. This flexibility makes them ideal for busy professionals, multitaskers, and lifelong learners.

2. Diverse Content for Every Interest

Whether you love true crime, business insights, comedy, or niche industry topics, there’s a podcast for you. This content diversity is a major reason podcasts remain popular, allowing creators to connect with highly specific audiences meaningfully.

3. Global Reach and Cultural Impact

Podcasts are now produced in multiple languages and formats, reaching millions worldwide. Some shows even transition into TV series or books, showing how the medium influences broader entertainment trends.


 

How Podcasts Are Evolving in 2025

As podcasting matures, it’s becoming more competitive. To stand out, creators are focusing on:

Higher Production Standards

With so much choice, listeners expect professional-quality audio and engaging storytelling. Creators are investing in better mics, editing software, and studio setups—often with the help of professional podcast production companies like Outset Studio.

The Rise of Video Podcasting

One of the biggest shifts is the move toward video podcasting. Platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts now support video content, and video podcasts are easier to discover, share, and engage with on social media.

🎥 Video not only increases visibility but also builds trust and connection with your audience.

How to Start a Podcast That Stands Out

Even in a saturated market, starting a podcast in 2025 can be a smart move—if done strategically. Here’s how:

1. Find Your Niche

A niche topic helps you attract a loyal following. Whether it’s fintech, parenting, or underground music, specificity drives engagement.

Example: Outset Studio worked with Mining Journal to launch a niche industry podcast that hit over 200,000 listeners in just 10 episodes.

2. Focus on Quality Content

Make your podcast engaging, informative, and entertaining. Plan your episodes, research your guests, and deliver value every time.

3. Know Your Audience

Understand your listener demographics—what they care about, how they consume content, and where they spend time online. This helps tailor both content and promotion.

4. Invest in Production

Listeners gravitate toward polished content. Use professional equipment and editing tools, or consider working with a studio like Outset Studio in London or Manchester to get your podcast sounding slick from day one.

5. Promote It Effectively

Marketing is key to growth. Use SEO, social media clips, email newsletters, and partnerships to drive listeners. Don’t forget to publish searchable transcripts and repurpose content across platforms.

So, Are Podcasts Still Popular in 2025?

Absolutely. Despite a crowded content landscape, podcasts remain one of the most accessible, authentic, and flexible forms of media. They’re evolving with video, improving in quality, and reaching larger, more diverse audiences than ever before.

For brands, creators, and experts, podcasts offer a unique way to connect, inform, and entertain—and their popularity shows no signs of fading.

Share the Post:

Related Posts