Is Strategic Podcasting Still Worth It in 2025? Here’s the Truth

Here's what you can expect from this episode:

Strategic podcasting is more relevant than ever in 2025—and in this episode, we’ll unpack why.

 

You’ve seen the stats. Millions of podcasts. New ones launching daily. So… is podcasting still a smart move for your business, or has the moment passed?

 

If you’ve ever thought, “Isn’t it too late to start a podcast?” or “Why isn’t mine growing the way I hoped?”—this episode is for you.

 

In this episode of Podcasting Problem Solver™, we’re cutting through the noise (literally) and busting the myth that podcasting is oversaturated and outdated. I’ll show you how strategic podcasting remains one of the most powerful tools for enhancing brand visibility, fostering audience trust, and driving long-term growth.

 

We’ll discuss what’s actually changed in the podcasting space (it’s not just the number of shows), what listeners want in 2025, and how to rise above the clutter with intention, rather than creating content for the sake of creating content.

 

You’ll learn how to build a podcast that supports your business goals, drives leads, and becomes a valuable marketing tool, not just another content task.

 

Plus, I’ll walk you through what I call the difference between a podcast that supports your business and one that just siphons energy from it.

Here’s what’s covered

  • [00:01:14] Is the podcast market really saturated?
    We’ll unpack the stats behind active vs. inactive shows, and why “4.5 million podcasts” isn’t the whole story.
  • [00:02:35] Why now is actually the perfect time to start
    Understand how audience behavior is shifting toward long-form audio and why it matters for your brand.
  • [00:03:50] What today’s listeners really want from a show
    It’s not just education; they want alignment, clarity, and a clear point of view. I’ll show you what that looks like in action.
  • [00:05:31] The secret to standing out in a crowded space
    Hint: It’s not fancy equipment or celebrity guests. It’s about intention, consistency, and alignment with your business.
  • [00:07:04] Podfade is real, but avoidable
    Learn why most shows die at episode 7 and what you can do to build one that actually lasts.
  • [00:10:32] The anatomy of a binge-worthy, brand-building podcast
    I’ll share the core elements every podcast needs to earn attention, drive leads, and support your business goals.
  • [00:11:46] Why podcasting still beats the algorithm
    Discover how podcasting gives you 30+ minutes of undivided attention, and how to turn that into traction.
  • [00:14:13] Who shouldn’t start a podcast (yes, I said it)
    If you’re hoping for a quick fix to your funnel or are still unclear about your message, this might not be the right time yet. And that’s okay.
  • [00:16:45] How to refresh a podcast that feels “off”
    Whether your show isn’t aligned anymore or growth has stalled, I’ll share what a strategic reset can do—and how I help clients relaunch with clarity and purpose.
  • [00:18:42] Lazy podcasting is the problem, not podcasting itself
    We’ll close with a reminder: when your podcast has strategy, it becomes a catalyst, not just content.
Whether you’re thinking about starting a podcast in 2025 or refreshing one that’s lost momentum, this episode breaks down a clear podcast growth strategy that aligns with your audience and your brand.

 

“If your podcast isn’t working for your business, it’s time to rethink how you’re showing up to the mic.” — Leah

 

Ready to create a podcast that earns attention, drives growth, and feels aligned?

 

Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly, strategic podcast marketing tips you’ll want to use.

 

Do you have a podcasting question you’d like me to cover? Send it here, and it might spark the next episode!

 

Let’s build something that works for you, not just looks good on paper.

Resources Mentioned:

Should You Still Start a Podcast in 2025?

Is Podcasting Oversaturated or Still Growing?

Leah Bryant [00:00:00]:
Hello hello, and welcome back to the Podcasting Problem Solver. I'm Leah Bryant, certified podcast growth coach, producer, and your business growth sidekick, here to help you turn your podcast into a powerful marketing tool—without burnout or guesswork.

So today we're tackling a common question: Is it even worth starting a podcast right now? Hasn't the market peaked? Are people still listening like they used to?

Spoiler: yes, they absolutely are.

Podcasting Stats That Might Surprise You

The Market Is Crowded—But Not Saturated

Leah Bryant [00:01:10]:
Right now, there are about 4.5 million podcasts out there. But most of them? They’re inactive or inconsistent.

That means there’s still room for your strategic, aligned show.

Global and U.S. Podcast Growth in 2025

In 2025, around 584 million people are tuning into podcasts worldwide—a nearly 7% increase from last year. In the U.S. alone, over 158 million people (more than half the population) are listening every month.

And they’re not just dipping in. The average listener spends 7 hours per week with podcasts.

Why Podcasts Still Work: Intentional Listening

Listeners Are Looking for Value, Not Noise

Leah Bryant [00:02:43]:
People are carving out time for podcasts that educate, inspire, and align with their values. They're becoming more intentional. And they're quicker to unsubscribe if your show feels scattered or self-serving.

Attention is earned, not assumed. And when you show up with a clear message and consistent delivery, you earn that attention in a way few platforms can match.

What Today’s Podcast Listener Actually Wants

Audiences Crave Depth, Clarity, and a Point of View

Leah Bryant [00:03:38]:
Listeners are asking:

  • “Does this speak to where I am in my journey?” 
  • “Will I walk away with something useful?” 
  • “Is this offering something fresh—or just more of the same?” 

A great podcast doesn’t just fill airspace—it cuts through the noise.

The Real Challenge: Strategic Podcasting vs. Just Showing Up

The Harsh Truth About Most Podcasts

Leah Bryant [00:04:45]:
Most podcasts don’t make it past seven episodes. It’s called podfade. And it happens when people launch without strategy, sustainability, or business alignment.

The directories may look full, but active, high-quality shows? Still rare. That’s your opportunity.

Podcasting in 2025: A Mature Market Needs Mature Strategy

From Oversaturated to Overdue for Strategy

Leah Bryant [00:06:00]:
Podcasting isn’t oversaturated—it’s maturing. The gold rush is over. What listeners want now are curated, high-value shows from real experts.

So no, it’s not too late. But it is time to take it seriously.

What Makes a Podcast Stand Out Today?

It's Not the Gear. It's the Alignment.

Leah Bryant [00:07:21]:
Forget the fancy equipment or celebrity guests. A standout show is built on alignment:

  • Who you are 
  • Who you serve 
  • What your business stands for 

That’s what creates connection. That’s what makes your message stick.

5 Essentials for Building a Strategic Podcast

What You Actually Need to Launch or Refresh Your Show

Leah Bryant [00:07:56]:

  1. Clearly Defined Audience
    Not “online business owners”—get specific about their needs, language, and goals. 
  2. Strong Point of View
    The internet has enough content. What it needs is leadership. What do you stand for? 
  3. Consistent Value
    Not just weekly drops—episodes should guide listeners through a journey. 
  4. Brand and Offer Alignment
    Your show should serve your business, not drain it. Strategic content supports sales. 
  5. A Strategy-First Approach
    This is all part of the Strategy and Attraction phases of my SEAMless Framework™. It’s how you create a binge-worthy show that builds trust and drives leads. 

Podcasting: The Most Personal Marketing Channel

Why Podcasting Creates Deeper Audience Trust

Leah Bryant [00:09:29]:
Where else do you get 30–40 minutes of focused attention from your ideal audience? Podcasting lets you build a relationship through voice, tone, and energy—in real time.

It’s not passive consumption. It’s active connection.

When You Should Wait to Start a Podcast

Podcasting Isn’t Always the Right Move—And That’s Okay

Leah Bryant [00:11:40]:
If you’re still figuring out your message, drowning in commitments, or hoping your podcast will fix your funnel overnight—press pause.

That’s not failure. That’s wisdom. Podcasting is a long game, not a shortcut.

What To Do Instead of Launching Right Away

Prepare Now, Launch Later (With Purpose)

Leah Bryant [00:12:12]:
Take this time to:

  • Refine your offers 
  • Clarify your audience 
  • Create space to show up fully (not frantically) 

When you're ready, your mic will be waiting.

Already Have a Podcast? Here’s What To Do If It Feels Off

Why a Podcast Refresh Might Be All You Need

Leah Bryant [00:12:50]:
Maybe you’ve launched, but it no longer reflects who you are. Messaging feels stale, downloads are flat, and you’re not sharing new episodes.

You don’t need to scrap it—you need a reset.

Introducing: The Podcast Refresh Intensive

Realign Your Podcast With Your Business Goals

Leah Bryant [00:13:24]:
In this half-day VIP experience, we’ll:

  • Audit your positioning 
  • Rework visuals and messaging 
  • Refine your format 
  • Build a sustainable, strategic content plan 

Your podcast should evolve with you—and when it does, it becomes a tool you’re excited to share again.

A Client Case Study: From Invisible Host to Thought Leader

Leah Bryant [00:14:13]:
One of my clients had a beautiful show... but it wasn’t helping her business.

We shifted her from interviewer mode to thought leader:

  • Highlighted her frameworks 
  • Aligned her episodes with client pain points 
  • Built a format that put her voice front and center 

Now her podcast drives sales, speaking opportunities, and client trust.

So... Is Podcasting Still Worth It?

The Final Answer

Leah Bryant [00:15:10]:
Yes—when it's done strategically.
Lazy or misaligned shows get lost. But intentional, connection-driven podcasts? They thrive.

This is what builds momentum, trust, and business growth.

Next Steps: Ready to Get Strategic?

Let's Turn Your Podcast Into a Catalyst

Leah Bryant [00:16:28]:
Join my newsletter for weekly strategies and insights. It's like having a podcast growth coach in your inbox.

Or book a free discovery call to talk about how podcasting can support your business.

And hey—if you’ve got a podcasting question, send it my way. I’d love to answer it on the show.

headshot of Leah Bryant Co, host of podcasting problem solver
Have a question or comment?

Send it to Leah!

headshot of Leah Bryant Co, host of podcasting problem solver
Hi, I’m Leah

Your go-to guide for making podcasting way less complicated and host of Podcasting Problem Solver

image for Podcasting Problem solver podcast by Leah Bryant

More about Podcasting Problem Solver TM

Are you an entrepreneur, coach, or small business owner looking for practical guidance on podcast growth, monetization, SEO, and marketing—plus how to grow your audience and turn your podcast into a powerful marketing tool? You’re in the right place.

Podcasting Problem Solver™ delivers step-by-step strategies, proven frameworks, and behind-the-scenes insights to help you launch and grow a podcast that aligns with your business goals.

If you’re looking for clarity on your podcast strategy, marketing support, or insights on building a show that works for your brand, you’ll find it all here.

Follow now and discover how to launch, grow, and market your podcast with confidence—no tech overwhelm required.

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