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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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