- Podfest Messenger
- Posts
- Podcast Downloads Surge in March as Industry Sees Broad Growth
Podcast Downloads Surge in March as Industry Sees Broad Growth
Podtrac has released its March 2026 podcast rankings, highlighting double-digit growth across the industry.
Podcast listening is continuing to grow and the most recent data is proof.
New data from Podtrac shows double-digit growth across the industry, with the top 20 podcast publishers seeing downloads increase by 11.7% month-over-month with every publisher in the top 20 seeing growth in both downloads and audience size.
The report also introduced new country-level rankings across 35 markets, signaling a continued push toward global podcast growth and more detailed audience insights.
What this means for podcasters
Audience demand for podcasts is still growing
Established shows and networks continue to dominate the charts
Data and analytics are becoming increasingly important for measuring success
Global listenership is becoming a bigger part of the conversation
This is reinforcing a key trend: Podcasting isn’t slowing down, it’s scaling.
Podtours: New York City Stop
Date: April 13, 2026 from 6:30pm-9:00pm SST
Connect with other local podcasters and creators to help grow and monetize your show as part of the Podfest Tour! A special thank you to our Podtour sponsors Morgan James Publishing and Podmatch.
Military Creator Con
Date: April 16-18, 2026 in Arlington, TX
Military Creator Con offers unparalleled opportunities for growth, connection, and inspiration. Through hands-on workshops, keynote talks, live performances, and networking sessions, MCC equips both emerging and established professionals to grow skills in storytelling, digital marketing, social-impact entrepreneurship, and immersive media.
Podtours: Tampa Stop
Date: May 6, 2026 from 5:30pm-7:30pm EST
Connect with local podcasters and creators to help grow and monetize your show as part of the Podfest Tour! A huge thank you to our Podtour sponsors Morgan James Publishing and Podmatch in partnership with Elite Podcast Studio.
Sponsor Spotlight: iSonic.ai
Podcast Creation Is Slowing… But Active Shows Are Surging
A recent report from Listen Notes highlights an interesting shift in podcasting: while fewer new podcasts are being launched, the number of active shows is actually increasing.
The article suggests podcasting may be moving out of its “rapid creation” phase and into a more sustained, commitment-driven era. Instead of a constant influx of new shows, we’re seeing more creators stick with their podcasts over time, building consistency, refining their voice, and deepening audience relationships.
The reality? Podcasting is no longer just about starting a show, it’s about maintaining one, and that shift could reshape how success in podcasting is defined (Finally!)
What’s Behind It?
The initial “start a podcast” boom is cooling off
More creators are continuing past the early drop-off point
The industry is maturing, with a stronger focus on consistency and long-term growth
Underlying Questions
There is a shift happening. Podcasting is shifting its focus from creation to commitment.
Podcasting has always been accessible, but sustainability is proving to be the real differentiator. As more shows remain active, competition for attention increases, not because of new entrants, but because existing creators are getting stronger and more consistent.
What are your thoughts?
Podcasting has officially entered its “consistency is currency” era… where staying power matters just as much (if not more) than starting power. Do you see this as a positive shift where more committed creators lead to higher-quality content?
Final Thoughts
Podcasting is entering its “know your numbers—and your position” era… and that could change how everyone plays the game.
We would love to hear your thoughts. Reply to this email and let us know. We would love to feature your responses in our weekly Messenger!
This show talks about how the mission and vision of a startup, small business, organization, or even an individual CAN and WILL make a strong impact in the future. It emphasizes the wonder of possibilities in the future through these interviews and how these entities can help shape the future.
Personal Development Mastery is a podcast for midlife professionals who are committed to personal growth and ready to take the next step in their life and work. Hosted by Dr Agi Keramidas, a personal development mentor, coach, and former dentist, the show helps you gain clarity, develop a growth mindset, and move forward with greater confidence and self-mastery.
Each episode explores the mindset shifts, practical strategies, and actionable insights that help you navigate life's challenges, break through limitations, and create the life you truly want.
Tales From South Florida is a storytelling podcast exploring South Florida history, old Florida landmarks, forgotten towns, and the people who shaped Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and beyond. Take a Talk Down Memory Lane as we uncover the stories that time almost forgot.
Welcome to The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades, the ultimate podcast dedicated to celebrating and exploring the world of skilled trades. Hosted by Andrew Brown, a passionate advocate for the trades industry, this podcast is your go-to source for knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice. Your host Andrew brings a unique perspective shaped by years of hands-on experience, entrepreneurial success, and a deep commitment to elevating the trades.
Publish Your Book with Morgan James
Turn your podcast into a powerful, profit-driving book with Morgan James Publishing. As the publisher for entrepreneurs, experts, and creators, Morgan James gives you the credibility of traditional publishing with the speed and flexibility today’s content leaders demand.
With Morgan James, you get to retain your valuable intellectual property rights, earn higher royalties than typical publishers, and plug into global distribution that makes your book available wherever books are sold. If you’re ready to elevate your authority, expand your platform, and create a book that drives real business growth, Morgan James Publishing is the partner built for podcasters.
Morgan James Publishing At Morgan James Publishing, we’re not just publishing books—we’re changing lives and shaping legacies. Founded by Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author David Hancock, Morgan James pioneered the revolutionary hybrid publishing model, breaking down traditional barriers and empowering authors to share their messages with the world. | |