Why You Should Start a Podcast in 2025: Key Benefits and Practical Tips

The podcast industry has experienced rapid growth over the past decade, and in 2025, with more than 500 million podcast listeners worldwide, it is still gaining momentum. Podcasting isn’t just a trend anymore – it can be a marketing strategy for brands and creators, and a tool for building connection and community. Its rapid growth and increasing global influence make it one of the most powerful content types today.  

The numbers speak for themselves:

Podcast Statistics in 2025

• 505 million podcast listeners globally
• 23.5% of global internet users are podcast listeners
• Weekly listeners average six hours of podcast time
• Regular listeners follow about 3.5 shows monthly
• Leading platforms: Spotify and Apple Podcasts
• Over 5 million podcasts with more than 75 million available episodes

Beyond the data, there are other important reasons why podcasting is a smart move for your brand, or if you want to establish yourself as a podcaster. Whether you’re looking to grow your brand, connect with a niche audience, or build a loyal community of followers, podcasting offers long-term value. Here are five key reasons why now is the perfect time to start a podcast.

1. Growing Audience

Podcasting allows you to reach a large global audience each week. Podcasts enable direct and uninterrupted communication with listeners, avoiding the struggle of social media algorithms that often limit reach. Whether you host a true crime podcast or start a history podcast show, it doesn’t matter how broad or specific your topic is – you’ll likely find a growing audience looking for the kind of content you offer.

2. Build Your Personal Brand

A podcast helps you position yourself as a voice of authority on a topic you’re passionate about. Hosting your own show allows you to share insights, stories, and experiences in your own voice. Over time, this builds credibility, authenticity, and trust – essential elements of a strong personal brand. It gives you the space to grow your brand organically and meaningfully, on your own terms. The key is to adjust the tone and voice of your podcast to match both your personality and your topic. You can be funny, casual, structured, or highly informative; your unique style is what makes your podcast memorable and helps your personal brand stand out. Some of the most popular podcasts, such as Stuff You Should Know, have built their personal brand by using an approachable voice and showing their genuine curiosity.

3. It’s Easier Than Ever to Start

You don’t need a full studio or a big budget anymore to launch a podcast. With accessible tools and AI-assisted editing, creating quality episodes has become faster and simpler. Platforms like Airtime Pro, an internet radio software used for podcasting, can help you manage and schedule your podcast episodes efficiently. Once your episodes are ready, you can also publish them to popular platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube with just a few clicks.

4. Build a Loyal Community

Podcasting builds community in a way few other formats can. Listeners hear your voice regularly and can feel personally connected to your content. To build and engage your community, encourage your audience to share feedback, ask questions, and suggest topics. Use social media, newsletters, or live Q&A sessions to keep the conversation going beyond each episode. Involving your listeners actively strengthens the connection, turning casual listeners into loyal supporters who share and talk about your podcast to help it grow.

5. Opportunities for Monetisation

Podcasting isn’t just a passion; it can also become a revenue stream. The global podcast ad spend is forecasted to reach $5.2 billion this year. Podcast monetisation methods include sponsorships, selling ad space, affiliate marketing, and listener donations. You can also earn money through sponsorship deals, where brands pay you to mention or promote their products during episodes. Many podcasters offer premium or exclusive content through paid subscriptions. Once your podcast builds a steady and loyal community, you can even launch your own merchandise to generate additional income.

If you’re wondering how to start a podcast, here are  some quick tips to help you take the first step.

Find the right topic

Choose something you’re passionate about, can speak confidently on, and won’t get bored of. It should be relevant to your audience, but also close to your heart.

Start simple

You don’t need fancy recording equipment. A good microphone, a quiet space, and free or low-cost editing software are enough for your first episodes.

Be consistent, not perfect

It’s better to publish consistently than to stress over perfection. Try to release episodes weekly to keep your followers engaged.

Find a format you like

Pick a podcast format that fits your style. If you prefer to work alone, go for a solo podcast, but you can also do interviews or find a co-host.

Engage your audience

Encourage feedback, questions, and reviews. Use social media or a newsletter to build a two-way relationship with your listeners.

Starting a podcast in 2025 offers a powerful way to build your brand, connect with a growing audience, and unlock new revenue opportunities. Whether your goal is to launch a successful podcast in your niche or simply share your passion with the world, podcasting provides a great platform for personal and professional growth. Even the best podcasts started somewhere, so why not start today? Now is the perfect time to dive in and make your voice heard in this growing format.