Whether you're travelling from A to B, lying in the sun or even in bed, podcasts can be a great way to pass the hours whilst feeling like you're achieving something at the same time.
The last year has given everybody far too much free time and that shows in the astronomical rise in podcast popularity. In 2019, there were around 450,000 podcasts available on Spotify. That figure now stands at 2.2 million different podcasts covering every genre and topic imaginable. You could argue that it has rapidly become a saturated market, making it increasingly difficult for any newcomers into the podcast game to find a reasonable audience. But, whilst people have time on their hands, they will continue to listen to podcasts, and its rise looks set to continue.
Advertising revenues for podcast creators has grown over 1000% from 2015 to 2021 meaning it has the potential to be a huge source of income for successful podcasts. For example, in 2020 Joe Rogan signed a $100 million deal with Spotify to host his shows on their platform. That's an unbelievable amount of money. In the UK, 18% of people listen to at least one podcast a month. It's not quite the 58% of South Korea, but it's still decent, and also a lot of people for podcasts to aim at.
Beyond just the increased spare time we all have, another reason podcasts are growing is that they can be listened to anywhere. Much like music, people can multitask with a podcast. A recent study showed that 49% of podcast listening takes place at home, 22% whilst driving, 11% at work, and 8% exercising. Combined with the endless choices now available to listeners, it's no surprise that podcasts are quickly becoming a staple of everyday life.
The most common demographic listening to podcasts everyday are those aged 25-44, which accounts for 49% of listeners, but for teenagers and those in their early-20's it means that if you aren't listening to podcasts already, give it a few years and you probably will be.
So from my slightly biased perspective based on what I have listened to in the past, here are some suggestions for podcasts that are definitely worth listening to.
Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster
A podcast combining food and comedy, a perfect duo. Speaking of perfect duos, Ed Gamble and James Acaster might be two of the poshest sounding comedians, but they are funny. At times the humour can be an acquired taste, no pun intended, and I don't recommend listening to it whilst you're hungry.
But a nice array of guest stars and anecdotal stories keeps Off The Menu ticking over as it has done for over two years. Was nominated for the British Podcast Awards in 2019 and 2020 so its highly rated too.
Sh**ged Married Annoyed
You might begin to see a theme of comedic podcasts and realise that's what I like listening to. Sh**ged Married Annoyed has less of a specific theme, and is more of general conversation about quite literally anything. But with two young children and middle aged adult life approaching the tone is very 'frustrated-parent-esque', something which unsurprisingly I cannot relate to.
There is a strong Geordie accent to contend with, but it really is a podcast of the people and is hugely popular. I must admit it is one I haven't listened to as much, and it isn't quite for me... yet. I'll wait until I'm married and annoyed.
Stuff You Should Know
One for the curious minds, with over 1400 episodes the Stuff You Should Know Podcast has absolutely everything covered. I've found myself scrolling endlessly through the options and had to create a list of the ones I wanted to listen to. There are also some really weird ones though, leaving you wondering if it really was something you should know. In particular the more recent episodes seem to be clutching at straws slightly and are rather obscure. But that's understandable when you've already made 1400+ episodes so I'll let them off the hook. I recommend taking a scroll to nearer the bottom that's where I tend to find the good stuff, like 'Is fluoride making us stupid?'.
That Peter Crouch Podcast
A massive personal favourite of mine, merging football and comedy. It's essentially three lads, one of course being ex-footballer Peter Crouch, getting completely sidetracked from what they intended to talk about each episode and it makes for a great listen. During the first lockdown I would eagerly look forward to Wednesdays. Crouchy and the lads to the rescue, but I also couldn't wait to find out who 'Parched' was. I understand you don't know what that means unless you listen to the podcast but the point is they've absolutely nailed audience inclusivity and inside jokes. Of course, if you're not a fan of football it probably isn't the one for you, but you never know. The boys have recently returned again for Season 5.
This may not be the most extensive list but there's only so many podcasts one can listen to and it also comes down to personal preferences. You might like political podcasts, science and environment podcasts, crime, interview, sex or finances podcasts - honestly there are so many different genres - and one day, I would love to diversify my choices, but right now, I'm pretty content.
You'll be surprised to see I haven't added the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast, not quite my thing, but I'm sure it's great. If you have any suggestions for podcasts leave them below or on our socials. Also, Summer 2021 will see Undefined entering the world of Podcasts so watch out Peter Crouch, we're coming for that UK top spot. I'm sure he's terrified.
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