While listenership still remains somewhat low in relation to other multimedia sources throughout the world, podcast audiences have grown exponentially each year since they were first created in 2004. Podcasts can be used to learn new information or to dive deeper into a topic which an individual is curious about. Podcasts range from topics of true crime, all the way to biographies, leaving something for everyone to listen to. Instead of having to turn on the radio, listeners can use a podcast listening app such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify to subscribe and listen to their favorite shows as often as a new episode is dropped.
With podcasts, individuals have access to a vast amount of information at their fingertips for free. Since podcasts are on almost every single social media platform out there, all an individual needs is a smartphone or smart device and an internet connection to listen to one. Podcasts double as a source of free information and entertainment. No matter what platform an individual picks to listen to a podcast on, it will have a vast selection of topics to choose from for all ages. When it comes to students, online and master classes can be extremely pricey, which is one of the main reasons why podcasts became popular. With podcasts, individuals can learn about any topic that they have been dreaming to learn about without having to pay for it. Due to the easy access of podcasts, individuals can listen at any time of any day, making this the best way to learn and stay entertained.
Podcasts also stimulate different parts of the brain, forcing individuals to actively listen, especially if it’s a topic they are truly interested in. They allow individuals to participate in what they are listening to by prompting them to listen, pay attention and then use their imagination to form pictures of the story they are listening to. Podcasts engage different sections of the brain, encouraging individuals to listen actively, especially if the topic is one they are passionate about. Podcasts are also hands free and easy by allowing individuals to multitask when doing chores, driving or even doing homework.
Another great aspect of podcasts is that they cut down on the usage of screen time. Today the average American household has the television on for eight hours a day. Scientists have proven the significant strain that screen time has on the eyes, and there is additional speculation that it is also bad for the brain. The great thing about podcasts is that they provide an entertaining alternative to visual media. Podcasts, much like videos, require no reading and little energy; however, they don’t cause the same visual strain or mental numbness as videos. In fact, studies show that the brain is more active while listening to podcasts than when watching television. This is because podcasts require listeners to use their imagination rather than spoon feeding consumers with visual accompaniment. With podcasts, there is no need to study off of a smart device to educate oneself on a subject.
In the hectic world we live in, it is oftentimes difficult to devote time and effort into learning new and important things going on around us, which is why a lot of people do not listen to podcasts. Even though podcasts can be time consuming, this does not overpower the numerous benefits which it offers.
As technology develops and generations continue, podcasts are going to become more and more popular. Whether an individual wants to learn a new skill, keep up with the news, handle their finances better or in need of a pep talk, there is a podcast out there for them.
