Podcasts emerged in the early 2000s with technology that allowed audio recordings to be downloaded automatically with the internet. Since then, multiple genres of podcasts have developed, such as comedy, true crime, news and sports. Podcasts are now available on a wide variety of apps and websites. Podcasts, like music, are something one can listen to while doing other activities. They are an uncomplicated way to entertain. Minimal equipment to start a podcast is necessary, but maintaining a podcast can be very time-consuming. While people are able to spread their ideas and creativity, podcasts can also spread misinformation or toxic ideologies
Podcasts are a creative way to express oneself. Hosts are people who create special auditory experiences through storytelling, sound design and conversation. Hosts can create communities for people interested in similar topics. Many podcast platforms have a wide variety of podcasts for free.
According to Teesside University’s article on the benefits of listening to podcasts, “tuning into a podcast can help reduce stress by engaging with interesting content and switching off from the outside world. It can help you to calm your mind and enjoy some relaxation time, diverting your thoughts from daily worries.”
Because podcasts require active listening, they improve cognitive function by stimulating mental imagery and imagination. Podcasts also provide accessible learning and education. Listeners are able to expand their knowledge about topics that interest them and learn new subjects.
Mary Keller (10) does not regularly listen to podcasts but thinks they are interesting.
“I think that podcasts can be beneficial if the information that they provide is good and can help those who need the information the podcast is giving them,” Keller said.
While listening to and creating podcasts can be very rewarding, not all podcast content is credible. Since podcast creation is available to anyone, sometimes hosts can spread toxic ideologies, promote conspiracy theories and misinformation. This spreads bias and creates echo chambers that can negatively impact a listener’s opinions. Echo chambers are environments most seen in social media that reinforce a belief and block out opposing views. This can possibly create extremism and increase misinformation.
Logan Collier (11) enjoys listening to podcasts.
“The podcast I have recently been listening to is the ‘Star Talk’ podcast hosted by astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson and co-hosted by Chuck Nice. This podcast focuses on the developing scientific theories of the universe and the social sciences. I have heard of podcasts that spread false information/toxic ideas. In particular, I believe that most of the podcasts that spread such information are founded on political bias and geared towards fueling propaganda,” Collier said.
Podcasts require a lot of effort from the host. Keeping up with a consistent publishing schedule and creating quality content can be challenging. Obsessively listening to podcasts can cause brain noise. Brain noise is defined as the state of mental overload. It can lead to exhaustion, anxiety or lack of sleep. The brain requires rest to function, and constant noise can disrupt it.
Podcasts are an accessible source of entertainment and can be advantageous when listened to in moderation. People can ensure their information podcasts are credible through researching the host’s expertise and sources.
Benjamin Schafer (11) prefers to listen to comedy podcasts.
“I like listening to podcasts while on a bike ride or during chores because they’re easy to fit in and don’t require full attention. They can make learning casual, give entertainment and expose me to new perspectives,” Schafer said.
