The Big Story of Podcasting in 2024: Video Takes Center Stage
The podcasting industry saw a significant shift in 2024, with video becoming a central part of the medium’s identity. This trend is being driven by major platforms like YouTube, which is now the biggest distribution point for podcasts. Many podcasters and producers are packaging their shows for video, and the traditional image of a podcaster – a host and guest sitting in a generic room with microphones – is now a visual trope across the internet.
Discovery is happening almost entirely in social video, and this has led to a growing anxiety about the future of podcasting. Some people are worried that the emphasis on video will benefit only certain types of shows, such as live-to-tape chatcasts, and that other formats will struggle to adapt. Others are concerned that the industry is ceding too much power to YouTube and other big tech platforms, which could lead to a loss of control and creative freedom.
The rise of video has also led to concerns about the dynamics of who gets to succeed in podcasting. For example, there is a worry that the natural demands of being on-camera may undermine the authenticity and intimacy that made podcasting popular in the first place. Additionally, some people are concerned that the increased emphasis on visuals will lead to greater gender biases, as women may feel pressured to conform to traditional beauty standards or risk not being taken seriously.
Despite these concerns, there are also some potential benefits to the rise of video. For example, it could lead to a greater diversity of formats and styles, as shows that don’t translate well to video may find new ways to reach audiences. Additionally, the industry may be forced to develop new concepts and language to support thinking about the medium in a more complex way.
Ultimately, the future of podcasting is uncertain, and the industry is still grappling with what it means to be a podcast in a video-centric world. However, one thing is clear: the rise of video has changed the game, and podcasters and producers will need to adapt in order to succeed.