Podcasts beyond the podcast

The evolution of podcasts continues at breakneck speed! After the high of the Covid era, podcasts didn't just stay the same. While video was always on the periphery of podcasts, in the last 12-18 months, video has become more the norm than the exception.

But beyond this is a more intriguing development. The fan connect. For most podcast fans, creators are a voice (and now, a face). But the reasons that most fans connect with a show is its depth, insight or opinion (for non-fiction) and storytelling in the case of fiction. But beyond social media, email and the occasional "live", how do fans connect with creators?

On-ground events have emerged as a strong fan connect opportunity. Case in point being the Inside Line F1 Club Pitstop and race screening events. Routinely, over 50 fans congregate (and over 100 for the Pitstop events) to follow share in their passion with others. Quizzes, prizes and banter follows along with great food and drink.

This is part of a growing trend that has also seen podcasts go beyond their life as an audio show and some are also moving into the OTT space.

What are our key learnings?

1. Fans want to connect with creators of the show
2. Once connected, there is higher loyalty among the audience and WoM grows stronger
3. This is a legitimate route to revenue for creators and way for brands to find a deeper connect with a highly engaged audience

As podcasters, it is important to find ways to be connected with the audience in real life. So go for it!