For this edition of Magellan’s quarterly report nearly 95,000 podcasts in four languages were analyzed. This file examination can detect number of ads, an estimate of downloads, cost of advertising per thousand plays (CPM), type of ad (e.g. host-read or produced), and whether ads are delivered programmatically or purchased directly. We hand over some key metrics, and link to the source. Continue Reading
In a large-scale project to glean how consumers regard podcast advertisers, audio-first market research firm Signal Hill Insights gathered results from 2024-25 survey results of nearly 39,000 consumers who were exposed to pre-roll, midroll, or post-roll ads. The goal was to create a set of benchmarks illustrating the effectiveness of podcast advertising. The survey was based on a response scale that ranged from familiarity with the brand, to purchasing intent. Click for details and graphics. Continue Reading
Much of the conversation around AI in audio centers on its helpfulness in various publishing scenarios that include streaming, radio, and podcasting — the three content tentpoles covered in RAIN News. New studies flip that, focusing on how radio and podcast advertising can help AI brands gain marketing advantage. Here, we review research from ad agency Oxford Road. Continue Reading
Driving Return (Paul Riismandel)
Her America (Dolly Parton)
More than fair (MC Lyte) Continue Reading
We are not surprised that Steve chose the (unconfirmed but generally believed) upending report that Spotify is developing an ad-skipping button for podcasts. As always, this column’s argument is cogent: It’s a battle between listening experience and publisher monetization. Read straight through to Steve’s punch-in-the-gut final line. Continue Reading
Bygone (Columbia House Record Club)
Ditching the human (Time Magazine)
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iHeartMedia is announcing that one of its celebrity properties, The Martha Stewart Podcast, will expand its publication footprint to Netflix starting this week. The movement is part of what the principals call a “growing exclusive video podcast partnership.” Continue Reading
Christian/conservative multimedia company Salem Media has completed its acquisition by WaterStone (also known as The Christian Community Foundation). Continue Reading
Music streaming giant Spotify has added a new chapter to its novelistic finances with a stock share repurchase program, just authorized by the company Board. Investors appear to approve. Continue Reading
As the identification of AI-made audio content continues to be a mandate in some settings, we learn that Apple Music is starting to require “Made With AI” labels on AI-created music uploads. Continue Reading
A stat is circulating on LinkedIn and in newsletters stating that only 10 out of the top 200 podcasts have video. The implication being that 95% of podcasters aren’t doing video. Guest columnist Steve Goldstein notes that It’s a comforting number if you’ve been skeptical of the video push, and an alarming one if you just spent money building a studio. The only problem is the stat is out of context. Continue Reading
Quote Marked is a feature of the RAIN Daily Digest email newsletter. In this special Quote Marked website edition, we are highlighting industry reactions to National Radio Day. Continue Reading