Audio Listening Hits 94% Among New Zealanders

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Most Kiwis Prefer Audio Over Video

The Infinite Dial New Zealand 2025 report was released at the Audio Summit 2025. It was sponsored by major New Zealand radio groups. The study found that 94% of people aged 16 and older in New Zealand listen to audio each week. This is higher than the percentage who use video (92%) or social media (73%). Other findings show 68% listened to the radio last week, 76% streamed audio in the past month, and 55% listened to or watched a podcast in the last month.

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More Local Businesses Try Podcast and Streaming Audio Ads

More local advertisers are planning to try streaming audio and podcasts this year, with interest in digital audio now higher than traditional radio. Younger audiences especially prefer digital audio, and platforms like YouTube are making podcasts both an audio and video experience, reaching over a billion users monthly. Experts suggest podcasters use eye-catching titles and thumbnails, offer both video and audio formats, and carefully plan their channel strategy to grow their audience and earn money on platforms like YouTube.

Aransas Pass High School Podcast Connects Community

Five students from Aransas Pass High School started the Panthers’ Perspective podcast, reaching over 7,000 listeners in its first year and helping to connect the school with the community. They built a simple studio from scratch and used the podcast to share important school news, celebrate student achievements, and boost school spirit. The project has received positive feedback, grown in size, and is helping students learn valuable real-world skills.

The New York Times Introduces "Cannonball" with Wesley Morris

The New York Times has launched a new weekly culture podcast called “Cannonball with Wesley Morris,” hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Wesley Morris. Each episode will feature conversations with writers, artists, and thinkers about current cultural topics, exploring their deeper meanings and historical context. The show aims to offer fresh insights, personal reflections, and engaging discussions about art and popular culture.

Tucker Carlson Show Rises in Podcast Rankings
Tucker Carlson’s podcast became much more popular last week, climbing to No. 5 on YouTube and No. 2 on Spotify, mainly because of a heated interview with Senator Ted Cruz and his ongoing feud with other MAGA media figures about the Israel-Iran conflict. Carlson’s public arguments with conservative personalities like Mark Levin and his viral interview clips boosted his viewership, with his Cruz episode hitting 3.5 million views. This recent surge is much higher than his previous podcast performance, where he averaged 651,000 views per episode last month.

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Podcast Journey

BOB FALCONE’S PODCAST JOURNEY

Meet Bob Falcone – the passionate outdoor expert and voice behind Outdoors With Hiking Bob, your go-to guide for exploring Colorado’s Pikes Peak region. A seasoned hiker, photographer, and advocate for outdoor recreation, Bob shares insider tips on trails, gear, safety, and local adventures while spotlighting conservation efforts and community stories. Tune in to learn from a true trailblazer!

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I'm a retired career firefighter and USAF veteran who developed my keen interest in hiking and outdoor recreation into a second career as a writer, photographer and podcaster.

What inspired you to start a podcast?

I wanted to share my knowledge and experiences beyond what I could do when writing and also feature interesting guests and their experiences.

How did you come up with the name of your podcast?

I was already "Hiking Bob" on social media, so the name came naturally.

What is the main focus or theme of your show?

Outdoor recreation in general, and hiking specifically, although not exclusively. We talk about how to be a responsible, well prepared and equipped hiker. We also talk to other writers, politicians, industry leaders etc to get insight in how thier work impacts outdoor recreation.

Have there been any particularly memorable moments during the recording that stick out to you?

After more than 400 episodes, it's hard to pin down any "one" memorable moment. I'd like to think that my guests, with only a couple of exceptions, have all been great to talk to and for the listener to hear.

 

Who has been one of your favorite guests so far, and why?

I have so many "favorite" guests! There are a few guests who I've had on many times because they are either fun to talk to, have an interesting story, or are influential people in the outdoor recreation sphere that it's important to have them re-visit the show and talk about the latest happenings.

What's next for your show – any exciting plans we should know about?

My goal is to expand the reach of my podcast by making it more attractive to people outside of the western US. I'd like to upgrade my audio equipment. Since my podcast comes out twice a month, there can sometimes be a longer than usual stretch between shows, so I am planning to do a short (5-10 minute) "catch -up" podcast in betwen to give the listener an update or preview of whats coming next.

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Visionary Voices Of Podcasting

Bridging Divides Through Courageous Conversations

Deborah Frances-White is a comedian, writer, and acclaimed podcast host best known for The Guilty Feminist, where she explores modern feminism with humor and honesty. A sought-after speaker and advocate for inclusive dialogue, she tackles complex social issues with wit and empathy, encouraging listeners to embrace imperfections while striving for progress. Her work challenges polarized thinking and champions constructive debate—a theme she delves into deeply in this interview about overcoming tribal divides.

Upcoming Podcast Events 

Discover the latest trends and strategies in podcasting by attending these must-experience upcoming events—perfect for creators, brands, and industry professionals looking to elevate their audio game.

June 30, 2025

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July 1, 2025

Online

July 3, 2025

20 Red Lion Street London WC1R 4PQ United Kingdom

Podcast Tip Of The Day

Match your music to your podcast's tone—whether serious, playful, or dramatic—to amplify emotions and engage listeners from the first note. 🎶 Keep transitions subtle (3-5 seconds max) to avoid jarring shifts, and always ensure music volume sits beneath your voice for clarity.

Bonus: Test your music choices with a small audience—what feels epic to you might distract others!


A Final Note

Great podcast music enhances your story without overpowering it—balance is key!

See you on Monday,

Podcast Tonight. www.podcasttonight.com