Better podcast analytics with PodAnalyst, plus TikTok doesn't launch a podcast

We track the biggest forces shaping podcasting next year: Goalhanger’s network effect, a pivot to listener-based analytics, and the tension between open RSS and closed “podcast” branding from big platforms. We dig into video hosting defaults, live streaming, and why honest metrics will decide winners. • Apple’s Show of the Year milestone and Goalhanger’s model • Cross-promo and cadence as scalable growth levers • Flight Studio’s talent strategy versus brand synergy • Hall of Fame inductees and industry recognition • Creator retention, audio versus video habits, and practical focus • Fountain’s video hosting and sensible playback defaults • TrueFans roadmap for audio, video, and live with HLS • TikTok’s “podcasts” and why definitions drive ad budgets • Substack live streaming and platform convergence • Pod Analyst’s unified telemetry, retention curves, and sales clarity • Downloads versus unique listeners and consumption baselines • Bot and AI slop concerns and search downgrading • Libsyn price rises and market signals • Awards season, new events, and what’s ahead (This description is from Buzzsprout's CoHost AI, which is very good and are our sponsor). Send James & Sam a message Support the show Connect With Us: Email: [email protected] Fediverse: @[email protected] and @[email protected] Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net