In this episode of the Podcast Industry Brief, we take a look at the biggest trends shaping the future of podcasting — and one thing is becoming crystal clear: video podcasting is no longer optional for many creators.
Jacob explores new research showing that 20% of global internet users are now watching video podcasts, why YouTube continues to dominate the space, and how platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Netflix, and Amazon are all racing to catch up. He also dives into the rise of AI-generated podcasts, the ethics of AI disclosure in content creation, YouTube’s push into television-style programming, and the growing battle for podcast discoverability.
Plus, Jacob covers major updates from Spotify for Creators, Apple Podcasts video support, Substack’s new recording studio, and a fascinating new discovery tool called Podspun.
*Articles*
• https://www.thestreamingwars.tv/insights/video-podcasts-reach-20-of-internet-users-as-youtube-extends-its-engagement-lead/
• https://creators.spotify.com/resources/news/expanding-video-partners-and-platforms
• https://shouldidisclose.ai/about.html
• https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/brandcast-2026-highlights/
• https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/new-youtube-series-2026/
• https://www.clawcast.dev
• https://www.theverge.com/entertainment/908339/spotify-prompted-playlists-podcasts
• https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/iheartmedia-siriusxm-merger-talks-azoff-apollo-advising-1236730151/
• https://www.instagram.com/p/DXc4pj8D_VQ/?img_index=1&igsh=MWt0ZDkyOGU4NWd4aQ%3D%3D
• https://podcasters.apple.com/partner-search
• https://on.substack.com/p/introducing-the-substack-recording
*Tool of the Month*
• Podspun: https://podspun.com
• Try my Podspun for the Ex-Homeschoolers Club: https://podspun.com/@Ex-HomeschoolersClub
*Connect with me*
• Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thejacobgooden
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejacobgooden/
• YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@thejacobgooden
• Newsletter: TBD
*My Other Podcast: Ex-Homeschoolers Club*
• Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/exhsclub/
• YouTube: @Ex-HomeschoolersClub
• Newsletter: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub
*Chapters*
00:00 Podcast Industry Brief: Video Podcasting Trends
00:18 Video Podcasts Reach 20% Of Internet Users
05:58 Spotify for Creators Has New Video Features
07:46 Amazon Alexa+ AI Generated Podcasts
10:04 ClawCast for your AI Agent
11:10 Should Podcasts Disclose Their AI Usage
13:48 YouTube Brandcast
17:22 Spotify Prompted Playlists
19:21 Crooked Media
20:01 Apple Podcast Video Is Live
20:36 Substack Recording Studio
21:42 Tool of the Month: Podspun
23:37 Closing
-----------------------------------------
Want to grow your podcast audience fast—without tech headaches? Learn how to attract high-profile guests and become a sought-after expert on other shows. Power Networking for Podcast Success shows you the easiest way to build loyal fans and boost visibility—organically.
Selecting the appropriate equipment is fundamental to producing a high-quality podcast. Start with a reliable microphone that suits your recording environment, whether it's dynamic for noisy spaces or condenser for controlled settings. Investing in good headphones ensures accurate sound monitoring during recording and editing. Additionally, consider acquiring a pop filter to minimize unwanted sounds and a sturdy stand to maintain microphone stability. A quality audio interface can enhance sound clarity, especially if you're recording on a computer. Proper lighting and a quiet recording space also contribute to professional-sounding episodes. By carefully choosing your equipment, you set a strong foundation for your podcast’s success.
Engaging content is the heart of a successful podcast. Focus on topics that resonate with your target audience and address their interests, challenges, and aspirations. Incorporate storytelling techniques to make your episodes more relatable and memorable. Vary your content by mixing interviews, solo episodes, and panel discussions to maintain listener interest. Conduct thorough research to provide valuable insights and accurate information, establishing your podcast as a trustworthy source. Encourage interaction by addressing listener questions and feedback, fostering a sense of community. Consistently delivering content that is both informative and entertaining will keep your audience coming back for more.
High audio quality significantly impacts the listener experience. Start by recording in a quiet environment to reduce background noise and echoes. Use a quality microphone and position it correctly to capture clear sound without distortion. Implement soundproofing measures, such as foam panels or blankets, to enhance acoustics. During editing, remove any unwanted noise and balance audio levels to ensure a smooth listening experience. Incorporate compression and equalization to fine-tune the sound. Clear and crisp audio not only makes your podcast more enjoyable but also reflects your commitment to professionalism, encouraging listeners to stay engaged.
Share episode updates, engage with listeners, join relevant groups, and use platforms to promote content snippets. Social media extends your reach and fosters a community around your podcast.
Produce high-quality content regularly, interact with listeners, leverage social media, optimize for search engines, and seek reviews and ratings to increase visibility and attract new listeners.
Monetization options include sponsorships, advertising, listener donations, merchandise sales, and offering premium content. Choose strategies that align with your audience and content style.
A podcast publisher manages the dissemination of your episodes to various platforms, handles distribution logistics, and often provides tools for analytics and monetization to support your show’s growth.
Show notes provide a summary of the episode, links to resources mentioned, and additional information. They improve SEO, offer value to listeners, and serve as a reference for your content.
Have a backup plan, such as secondary recording software or equipment, regularly update your technology, and troubleshoot common problems in advance to minimize disruptions during recording.
Technical issues can disrupt your podcast recording, but with proper preparation, you can minimize their impact. Before recording, test all your equipment, including microphones, headphones, and software, to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Have backup solutions in place, such as an extra microphone or a secondary recording device, in case of equipment failure. Familiarize yourself with troubleshooting common problems, such as audio glitches or software crashes, to address them quickly. Maintain a stable internet connection if recording remotely and consider using wired connections to reduce the risk of dropouts. Additionally, keep your software updated and regularly perform maintenance on your equipment to prevent unexpected issues during recording sessions.