The Podcast Top 5

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we cover Acast opening a new studio in SoHo with Ariana Grande appearing on Shut Up Evan, NPR launching its new Pod Club recommendation newsletter, and a new hosting platform called Fountain for Podcasters.   Plus, this week’s podcast pick is It’s Going DOWN in the Comments with Drew Afualo, diving into the wildest TikTok comment sections with humor and candid conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re covering some big moves in the podcast world. Storytelling powerhouse MrBallen has signed a major distribution and monetization deal with SiriusXM, expanding his reach across both audio and video platforms.   Meanwhile, Minneapolis has a new podcast hub with the launch of AMP Studios, a unique production space located inside a financial services company, showing that even the finance world is getting into podcasting.   Over on the tech side, Spotify has upgraded its Apple TV app, finally bringing video podcasts to the big screen along with Spotify DJ after more than a year without video support. And Triton Digital has introduced AdBuilder AI, a new tool that helps small and medium-sized businesses create and book broadcast-quality podcast ads automatically.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule brings you the latest podcast news:   Trebble just launched DeepCut, an AI editing tool that lets podcasters cut, polish, and refine episodes using plain language, plus an optional Safe Cut feature for natural-sounding edits. Oxford Road unveiled ORBIT, the first podcast ranking system based on ad performance rather than popularity, giving marketers the data they’ve been waiting for.   James Corden’s This Life of Mine is now available everywhere, moving beyond its SiriusXM exclusivity to reach all listeners. And Altmetric is tracking podcasts, meaning research cited in episodes now counts toward academic impact.   This week’s podcast pick is The Rest Is History with Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook. From brutal rulers to epic battles and world-changing events, it’s history told like a thriller. Discovered via mowPod Charts, this show is perfect for history buffs or anyone looking for gripping storytelling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule brings you the latest podcast news: Diary of a CEO fans can catch a special Louis Tomlinson episode in six Cineworld cinemas across the UK and Ireland before it drops anywhere else. PodRoll launches PodRoll Video Promos on Apple Podcasts, letting creators add unskippable trailers right in their feed.   Hollywood is joining the podcast party, Golden Globes just announced 25 eligible shows for its very first Best Podcast award, with six nominees to be revealed in December. And if you missed Podcast Movement 2025 in Dallas, every session is now available online for free keynotes, panels, and all the podcast wisdom from your couch.   This week’s podcast pick is The Art Angle, giving listeners an insider look at the art world with Artnet News. From museums to the market, it’s big art stories explained in a way that’s approachable, fascinating, and addictive. Discovered via mowPod Charts, it’s your backstage pass to the art industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule dives into the latest in podcasting: Podcasts are now a major news source, with 54% of U.S. adults tuning in and Republicans reportedly trusting them twice as much as Democrats. YouTube launches YouTube Labs, offering AI music hosts that bring trivia, stories, and commentary to your playlists.   Over in the UK, HERA, a female-founded video podcast network, is putting women front and center in media. And Megaphone-hosted publishers on Spotify are getting a major ad tech upgrade, including video ads, clickable ads, and smarter targeting with first-party data.   Plus, this week’s podcast pick is Drop A Pin, where The Wonton Don and Uncle Chaps take listeners on hilarious, wild, and sometimes profound adventures around the world. Discovered via mowPod Charts, it’s the perfect mix of travel, comedy, and storytelling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we cover Amazon Prime Video streaming New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce in the U.S. (international fans, you’re on YouTube for now). Steven Goldstein weighs in on how the term “podcast” now means personality-driven, on-demand content, no matter the platform. Spotify is testing AI transparency tools for music, and NPR confirms that podcasts are outpacing radio in revenue, proving your earbuds are officially valuable.   Plus, this week’s podcast pick is The Last Invention, a gripping dive into the history, rivalries, and visions behind AI, exploring the people racing to create what may be humanity’s ultimate invention. Discovered via mowPod Charts, it’s suspenseful, dramatic, and perfect for anyone curious about the future of technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we dive into MrBeast’s recent controversy over alleged misleading YouTube ads aimed at kids and questionable privacy practices. PodAnalyst launches a new analytics tool unifying Apple, Spotify, and YouTube data, free for shows under 1,000 listeners. Big ad spenders like Amazon and GoDaddy are shaking up the podcast marketing world, while research shows listeners remain cautious about AI in podcasting. Plus, this week’s podcast pick is Heavyweight with Jonathan Goldstein, taking you on heartfelt road trips and awkward reunions that explore the “what ifs” of life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we cover the latest podcast scams targeting unsuspecting guests, don’t click that “big-name podcaster” email just yet. Canada’s podcast scene is booming, with 46% of listeners tuning in monthly, and Adam Carolla celebrates a milestone 4,000th episode with none other than Jay Leno. Descript is shaking up subscriptions with new pricing based on media minutes and AI credits. Plus, Emily highlights this week’s must-listen: Pardon My Take, your go-to podcast for sports, laughs, and unpredictable moments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re exploring Brazil’s massive rise as a podcast powerhouse and why creators ignoring the country are missing out on a huge audience. Apple Podcasts 26 is here with AI-powered dialogue enhancement, per-show playback speeds, and a refreshed interface. Amazon Ads and SiriusXM team up to bring programmatic audio advertising to the masses, while YouTube rolls out tools to turn your long-form podcasts into Shorts, plus AI editing and dynamic ad slots. And this week’s featured podcast? 10 to Life with Annie Elise, a gripping true crime show uncovering murders, cold cases, and high-profile trials with precision and insight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Podcast Top 5 hosted by Emily Soule, we uncover fresh insights from Sounds Profitable showing that nearly half of YouTube podcast users actually listen more than they watch—while Spotify audiences lean the other way. Emily also spotlights the launch of Podhome, a new app with transcripts, chapters, and live podcast features, plus key takeaways from The Podcast Study: Growth on why the first 60 seconds of your show can make or break your audience. And don’t miss the gear news: RØDE’s new Wireless Micro receiver is simplifying life for creators. Finally, Emily highlights The Huberman Lab Podcast, a must-listen for anyone looking to optimize their brain and body.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Podcast Top 5 hosted by Emily Soule, we dive into the latest shifts shaking up the podcasting world. From new data showing fans are spending over 6 hours a week with their favorite shows, to Spotify’s Follow-Along feature turning audiobooks into multimedia experiences, there’s no shortage of innovation. Captivate rolls out powerful growth tools, Variety shuts down Emmy dreams for video podcasts, and the Golden Globes steps in with a new podcast award. Plus, Emily spotlights Unicorn Girl, a gripping investigative series about ambition, deception, and the fine line between visionary and fraud.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re covering a major shake-up: Podcast Movement and Sounds Profitable have merged in a seven-figure deal, with Bryan Barletta stepping in as President and the 2026 flagship event heading to New York City. Libsyn is helping creators get discovered with PodRoll, a brand-new tool that promotes shows directly in podcast feeds. Wondercraft introduces “Wonda,” the world’s first AI agent for content creation, while fresh data from Australia shows millennials, Gen Z, and even blue-collar workers are tuning in more than ever — with YouTube leading the charge. And this week’s featured pick? The Deck, a true-crime podcast turning playing cards into tools for solving cold cases.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re covering Libsyn’s massive milestone — over $112 million paid to creators since 2017, with new tools to help podcasters monetize from day one. We’ll dig into fresh data showing Gen Z’s podcast habits are driven by YouTube and social media, plus the wild ripple effect of Taylor Swift’s appearance on New Heights, which sent streams and views skyrocketing. Then, we’re looking at tough truths from The Podcast Study: Growth — 41% of listeners won’t give a show a second chance if the first episode flops. And this week’s featured pick? Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett, a powerful show that pulls back the curtain on the world’s most fascinating leaders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule breaks down the latest in podcasting. Spotify is rolling out age checks in the UK with facial recognition and ID scans, stirring up conversations about safety and privacy. Football fans are diving into The Players Lounge, a new game from the team behind The Rest is Football. Meanwhile, London is becoming a hub for video-first shows as Podshop Studios expands. Plus, the 2025 Ear Worthy Awards spotlight indie creators with their latest nominations and winners! And don’t miss this week’s pick: The Kinda Funny Podcast — a hilarious, anything-goes conversation that’s winning over listeners fast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re unpacking Apple’s latest move to keep your podcast listening habits private, even adding “noise” to mask your data. In Spain, public broadcaster RTVE is blocking RNE shows from third-party apps, sparking concerns about the future of open RSS. Spotify is testing a new Audiobooks+ add-on with 15 hours of monthly listening time, and FOX News just inked a licensing deal with the conservative podcast Ruthless. Plus, this week’s featured show is Get Better at Beach Volleyball, the perfect pod for athletes and aspiring players looking to level up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re breaking down Acast’s new global partnership with Magnite — a major move that could boost discoverability (and revenue) for podcasters everywhere. Apple is also leveling up its audio game with an “Enhance Dialog” feature for crisper sound and an Automix tool for music lovers. TIME just revealed its 100 Best Podcasts of All Time, but some major names were left off the list — including Joe Rogan. Meanwhile, Joe Budden is flexing podcast power, earning over $1 million a month on Patreon alone. And this week’s top podcast pick? Right About Now with Ryan Alford — a no-fluff marketing show climbing the charts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re diving into Edison Research’s new UK report showing podcast listening on TV has doubled — with Spotify and BBC Sounds pulling ahead of Apple. In the U.S., Gen Z and young millennials are now listening to podcasts just as much as radio, a massive shift from a decade ago. Amazon’s Steve Boom insists Wondery’s big reorg is nothing to worry about, while South Africa’s DStv learns the hard way that mixing raw podcast energy with network TV can get messy. And this week’s podcast pick? The Fantasy Footballers — your ultimate draft-day advantage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule, we’re diving into Apple Podcasts’ ultra-selective “Best So Far” list — and why most of the world didn’t make the cut. Then, we break down Wondery’s corporate shake-up as Amazon lays off 110 staff and restructures its podcast empire. Plus: a hilarious case of mistaken identity between two nearly identical Brazilian podcasts, a new tool that turns your episodes into books, and a chilling true crime pick set in the remote wilds of Alaska.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule dives into the big waves and bold moves in podcasting across the globe. France is calling for podcasting to be officially recognized as a cultural industry (oui, please), a new player enters the scene with the launch of Mission Media AI, and Audacy shuts the doors on Pineapple Street Studios in yet another shake-up.   Oh, and in case you missed it, New Zealand says audio > video. You heard that right. Tap in for what’s changing, what’s closing, and what’s next in the podcast world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule takes you inside the buzziest headlines in the podcast world: The Astra Podcast Awards are officially on the horizon, Acast signs the ever-viral Giggly Squad, and advertisers are finally putting their money where the mic is.   Plus, PodWoman is back and this year it’s in person! From big brand love to celebrating powerhouse women in audio, this episode covers the major moves shaping podcasting right now. Let’s get into it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule breaks down the latest shifts in podcastland, from a noticeable drop in new episode uploads this June (is podcast burnout a thing?) to The Podcast Standards Project officially certifying new players in the space.   Plus, we’ve got a comedy podcast festival going global and former footballer Jermaine Jenas stepping into the audio arena with a brand-new company. Fewer episodes, more innovation—this one’s got all the twists.   Tune in for the five stories shaping your feed this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule dives into the latest podcast power moves and plot twists. From Spotify losing Trevor Noah to Marc Maron calling it quits after 16 years of WTF, the industry’s getting a shake-up. Plus, YouTube dominates news podcast listening in the US, and Spotify rolls out new podcast discovery features (but… how do they actually work?).   And for Podcast of the Week, we’re spotlighting Devil in the Desert—a gripping true story of betrayal, brutality, and a manhunt that spans the globe. You’ll be on the edge of your seat.   News, tea, and top pods? You’re in the right place. Let’s hit play.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule dives into the chaos and charm of the podcasting world! From pink slips at Spotify’s podcast division to podcast ads earning way more trust than social media, this episode’s got it all. We break down the latest research from Sounds Profitable that shows why your listeners actually believe what they hear (take notes, Instagram). Plus, a lawyer from Radio-Canada sends out cease-and-desist letters without fully understanding how RSS feeds work. Classic.   Also: our Podcast of the Week is The Best People with Nicolle Wallace, where high-achievers drop knowledge on how to lead with truth, decency, and that secret sauce of success.   It’s smart, it’s spicy, and it’s just the right amount of sarcastic. Let’s dive in.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re diving into the biggest podcasting buzz: Apple Podcasts just had its best year ever and for the first time, their team actually took the stage at a podcast event! Plus, we’re talking flipping houses and flipping expectations with our Podcast of the Week, The Science of Flipping.   Also in the mix:   Is video podcasting about to get way better for indie creators? Apple’s UK podcasting dominance (88 of the top 100 shows are UK-made!) And how real estate investing might just be your next remote gig.     All that and a peek at mowPod Charts, the no-fuss way to track Apple Podcast rankings.   It’s podcasting, but smarter. Let’s go.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode of The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule from mowPod dives into the latest in podcast and audio news We’re talking Spotify’s massive Q1 profits and their bold moves in Mexico with the first-ever Mexico Podcast Awards. We also dive into POD Pods—yes, earbuds designed just for podcast lovers (if only they were real). Plus, we break down the launch of PodHeroes, the world’s first expert podcasting marketplace, and Descript’s very real transcription fails.   From fantasy tech to financial flexes, this one’s for the podcast power users. Let’s get into it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode of The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule from mowPod dives into the latest in podcast and audio news—starting with Spotify’s big bet on non-English audiobooks and what that actually means for creators. Then, we talk Descript’s transcription tool… or lack thereof (spoiler: users aren’t thrilled). And finally, Rolling Stone’s new “audio awards” are here—with familiar mic brands taking home the gold… and possibly some undisclosed affiliate links along the way.   Whether you’re here for the drama, the downloads, or the dysfunction—this week has a little bit of everything.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule from mowPod rounds up the week’s biggest podcast headlines: YouTube eyes dynamic ad insertion, Apple Podcasts proves it’s still the heavyweight champ, Podcast Movement Evolutions kicks off in Chicago, and the BBC backs away from a controversial ad plan after industry pushback. It’s fast, fun, and full of the audio intel you didn’t know you needed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule from mowPod is breaking down the hottest stories in podcasting. First up, I found Australian True Crime thanks to the new mowPod Charts, the ultimate free tool for tracking podcast rankings. Then, we’re diving into Michelle Obama’s new podcast, IMO, recorded live at SXSW. Plus, YouTube is making moves with a new Podcast tab for Android TV, but is it actually helpful? AI is also stepping in to fix chaotic podcast conversations (finally!), and we’re talking about a creator who lost nearly $1,000 after switching to Spotify’s video podcast program—ouch.   All that and more on this week’s Podcast Top 5!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Emily Soule from mowPod breaks down the biggest moves in podcasting! First up, mowPod Charts, the forever-free tool giving podcasters a clear view of the Apple Podcasts rankings. Then, we spotlight Crime Junkie, the true crime obsession that never quits, and celebrate Podimo hitting 1 million paid subscribers. Plus, we explore Audyllic, the tool making podcasts sound studio-perfect, and check out Canadian Podcaster, the newest resource for Canada’s podcast community. Don’t miss this one!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The podcast industry is making major moves—YouTube just hit 1 billion monthly podcast viewers, Listen Notes is cracking down on AI-generated shows, and Acast is paying out millions to creators in Australia and New Zealand. Plus, we highlight Now On Netflix, your go-to source for what’s streaming this week. Tune in as we break down the biggest podcasting headlines shaping the industry right now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule from MowPod breaks down some of the hottest podcast industry news! We dive into Spotify’s new creator earnings figures, showing huge monthly revenue for top podcasts, and the massive growth in video podcast consumption. Plus, we discuss Amazon Wondery’s shock closure of its Mexico and Brazil operations, despite successful shows and nominations in Latin America. And, don’t miss updates on the latest podcasting record in Sweden, with more listeners than ever before! All this and more in this exciting episode. Tune in now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Emily Soule from mowPod, host of The Podcast Top 5, as she breaks down the latest buzz in the podcast world! This week, we dive into Spotify’s music licensing issue as music publishers demand the removal of unlicensed songs from podcasts, whats going on with that? Plus, Netflix is exploring podcast creators and how it might tap into this booming space, and Meta’s Audiobox lets you create audio stories with AI voices and sounds, definitely a tool worth checking out. All this and more, packed into one episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Podcast Top 5, we’re diving into major updates shaking up the podcasting world! I’m Emily Soule from mowPod, and we’ve got big news: - Goodbye Chartable, Hello mowPod Charts! A new free tool is here to track your Apple Podcasts rankings! No sign-ups, no fees, just real-time insights. - Apple Invites! Game-Changer or Gimmick? iCloud+ subscribers now have a sleek new way to send event invites straight from their iPhones. - The 2025 Women Podcasters Awards Are Here! Find out how you can get recognized and vote for your favorite shows. - PodcastOne’s Big Move to ART19! What this means for podcasters, advertisers, and listeners. - Podcast of the Week: This Past Weekend with Theo Von! A must-listen mix of comedy and real talk.   Hit play to stay ahead in the podcasting world, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly top 5 podcasting updates!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule from mowPod! Each episode, we count down the top five must-know topics in podcasting, from game-changing tools like PodMatch to major events like On Air Fest, industry trends, stats, and the hottest shows, like SmartLess. Whether you are a creator or a listener, this is your go-to source for staying ahead in the podcasting world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule from mowPod breaks down the biggest podcasting stories of the week. We dive into the exciting world of video podcasting, unpack the new “One by Willie” podcast, and explore the financial side of podcasting—how much are podcasters actually making? Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster, a Willie Nelson fan, or just curious about the business side of things, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for insights, fun stories, and a look behind the scenes of the ever-evolving podcast industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule from mowPod breaks down the biggest podcasting stories of the week. We dive into Spotify’s new Partner Program—will it help podcasters or just add more hurdles? Plus, the iHeartPodcast Awards are back with a live show at SXSW, and Podfest Expo 2025 promises to level up creators with workshops, networking, and industry insights. Don’t miss our spotlight on Military Creator Con, a unique event celebrating military makers. Finally, we feature Office Ladies, the ultimate podcast for The Office fans, as our Podcast of the Week.   Tune in for expert insights, industry news, and all the stories shaping the future of podcasting!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule from MowPod breaks down the top stories in podcasting and digital content. We spotlight Kristin Davis’ new podcast Are You a Charlotte?, dive into Apple Podcasts finally launching on Android, explore the latest podcast licensing drama, and take a look at the highlights from On Air Fest. Tune in for expert insights on these exciting developments shaping the podcasting world!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Podcast Top 5, Emily Soule from mowPod breaks down the top stories in podcasting and digital content this week. We spotlight the Podcast Hall of Fame’s 2025 inductees, Kylie Kelce’s rapid rise to podcasting stardom with Not Gonna Lie, the latest YouTube strategies for creators, and what Patreon’s newest features mean for podcasters. Tune in for expert insights and the stories shaping the future of podcasting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosted by Emily Soule from mowPod, this episode dives into the biggest podcasting stories of the week! We’re talking all things Spotify Wrapped, Oprah’s exciting leap into podcasting, Acast’s shiny new London studios, and the highlights from the Australian Podcast Awards. This episode is your ultimate podcasting catch-up!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into the hottest headlines in podcasting each week with The Podcast Top 5, hosted by Emily Soule from mowPod. From game-changing YouTube Shorts updates to Spotify’s latest social media integrations, groundbreaking awards celebrating women podcasters, and exciting industry collabs like Lemonada Media’s new audiobook series—Emily delivers the top five stories you need to know. Perfect for podcast lovers, creators, and anyone curious about the ever-evolving world of audio storytelling. Subscribe now and stay ahead of the trends with your go-to podcast news source! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Podcast Top 5, host Emily Soule from mowPod covers the latest in podcasting news! Tune in as we dive into Spotify’s new comment feature and their ad exchange pilot program, setting the stage for more interactive and dynamic podcasting experiences. We also spotlight the Canadian Podcast Awards nominations, celebrating some of the industry’s best. Finally, discover how sports audio is gaining momentum, reshaping how fans engage with their favorite teams and athletes. Join us for a packed episode of insights and trends shaping the future of podcasting!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of “The Podcast Top 5,” host Emily Soule from mowPod dives into the shifts in the podcasting landscape. Discover the power of the Epidemic Sounds music library and how it’s enhancing audio storytelling. Explore the latest trends in advertiser spending and what it means for creators. Also Emily discusses the growing phenomenon of podcasts transforming into TV shows and the increasing migration of podcasters to YouTube. Join Emily for an insightful look at how these developments are shaping the future of podcasting!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.