2022: The Year of Podcast
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Since COVID-19 we have been seeing a podcast trend increasing faster than we even know. Millions of people, especially Gen-Z, are beginning to listen to audio on the go such as podcasts. We're a busy generation, so why not make life easy and multitask? Not only is it convenient but podcasts are fun. It is definitely a growing trend of 2022. Let’s talk about why they are so successful.
Accessibility
Podcasts are open to anyone and everyone. With a click of a button, you can have access to any podcast you want. No more checking out books from the library or watching boring ads in the middle of your video. It’s also easy to use various media platforms to listen to podcasts. Apps like Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts all have them ready to go for free. Other podcast-specific apps like Audible and Stitcher are great as well.
Health and Happiness
It’s been proven that podcasts can stimulate multiple parts of the brain that boosts your endorphins. There have been no harmful aspects to podcasts helping strengthen your body and brain. Let’s keep it that way. Additionally, there was a study conducted in 2016 at UC Berkeley that revealed the brains of people who listened to hours of narrative podcasts. It basically found symmetry in representation among different hemispheres of the brain, specifically in the cerebral hemisphere- which is a good thing. Why wouldn’t you want to boost your brain health?
A Podcast for Everyone
There are over 48 million podcast episodes in total as stated by Neal Schaffer in April of 2021. A year later, the number has most likely increased. Basically, there has to be a podcast for you. There are podcasts about everything - dating advice, veganism, climate change, Justin Bieber. Literally, anything. We promise you will find the podcast you will love. Just start looking! We recommend Lexi Hidalgo's Moments Podcast or The Daily by The New York Times. Two of our favorites.
Educational
This form of audio is extremely easy to learn new things without even realizing it. There are educational podcasts available, but every podcast is pretty informational without even trying. It’s a great way to teach new content in a shortened period of time. You can learn unique topics directly from experts themselves. Next time you're studying for a test, see if there’s a podcast for it!
Support
Podcasts are relatable and are very popular among Gen Z. Nearly 50% of Gen Z use Spotify for podcasts. Let that sink in. Along with everyone else, our generation is still currently facing the effects of COVID-19. Poor mental health is a big result of the pandemic. Podcasts are a great way to cope with mental health, especially if you create them. It is a very relaxing activity. Listening to others is also a beneficial way to deal with stress, and it definitely helps.
We hope that these five things helped you realize how important and effective podcasts are. Go out, listen and let us know what you think!