How do you feel about the future of podcasting in 2026?

In this episode, we answer a question I know has been on the minds of so many podcasters: Where is podcasting headed? What We Covered Spotify, YouTube, and AI Slop: I kicked things off sharing my concerns about immoral creators, content exclusivity, and how blurry the definition of a “podcast” is getting. Optimism vs. Pessimism: We heard from multiple voices on whether the future looks bright or grim, and what keeps each of us going. Video, Discoverability, and Content Overload: How YouTube’s dominance and the rise of video (and AI-generated "slop") is shifting the landscape, sometimes making things more confusing than ever. Monetization Woes and the Hopes for Crowdfunding: Many noted frustration with ads and the current monetization system, with hope for easier, more integrated crowdfunding in the future. Government Regulation and Freedom of Speech: A Canadian listener shared real concerns about government overreach and its chilling effect on creators. Defining Your “Why” and Staying True to Your Mission: Several contributors reminded us to focus on passion, purpose, and connecting with our audience. Staying Resilient: Through all the changes—algorithm shakeups, new platforms, and shifting formats—what matters most is keeping your audience at the heart of what you do. Participants Steve Stewart (Podcast Editors Mastermind, Podcast Editor's Academy, Steve's Site) Kim Newlove (The Pharmacist’s Voice Podcast, Perrysburg Podcast ) Todd the Gator ( Guardian Down Roundtable, 50 Years Experience Required, Lessons in the Rearview Leslie Marting (Greatland Media) Ralph Estep Jr. ( AskRalph.com ) Podcasting Morning Show York Welcome to Earth Stories Cool Cars with Chris Mentioned In This Episode JJJAck Film's Video on youTube Demonetization New Media Show Rob Greenlee and Brendan Monaghan Podcasting 2.0 on the Slop Factory at Spreaker Podnews on More AI than Human Shows Profit From Your Podcast Book Thanks for Sharing This episode became a great sharing of opinions, experiences, and predictions. Some worry about gatekeepers and algorithmic noise, while others find hope in podcasting’s unique intimacy and power to connect. No matter where things go, staying true to your purpose, your “why,” and serving your audience will always be the foundation. Keep your ears open, your content honest, and your passion high. Thanks to everyone who contributed, and as always: if you loved this conversation, hit that share button and keep the School of Podcasting growing! Mentioned in this episode: Give Your Podcast A Home When you look at our podcasting pieces, your media host is the engine. But your website is the home. It’s where your audience learns who you are, explores your episodes, and decides to subscribe. At Podpage, we build podcast websites that are fast, reliable, and designed to convert visitors into listeners. Every episode is automatically published, SEO-optimized, and structured for growth—so you can focus on creating, not managing your site. If your media host powers your podcast, Podpage gives it a place to live—and a place to grow. Start building your podcast’s home with Podpage by going to www.podpage.com/preview and start your 14 day free trial today. Podpage Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why? Does the size of your audience matter? Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/question by August 28th (and don't forget to say a little bit about your show and your website address so I can link to it in the notes) School of Podcasting You Have A Message That Needs to Be Heard You have a message that needs to be shared. Discover the art of podcasting at the School of Podcasting. We teach you to shine a light on your stories, inspiring others one episode at a time. Let your voice be your legacy. Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/join School of Podcasting Live Appearances I loved connecting with my audience. Here are the next events I will be at: November 11: Podindy.com (use the coupon code SOP) February 23-26, 2027: National Religious Broadcasters nrb.org I'd love to speak at your event. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/contact Where Will I Be?