Podcasts have become one of the most popular ways to learn, laugh and be entertained, with shows on every topic imaginable. International Podcast Day, on September 30, celebrates podcasts, their creators and listeners. Whether you listen during your commute, while cooking or on a walk, it's a great day to discover a new show or share a favorite.
History of International Podcast Day
Podcasts grew out of internet radio and audio blogs. Around 2000, developers including Dave Winer added audio files to RSS feeds, allowing listeners to subscribe to shows automatically. Former MTV host Adam Curry also helped popularize the idea.
The word 'podcast', a combination of 'iPod' and 'broadcast', was coined by journalist Ben Hammersley in a 2004 article in The Guardian. In 2005, Apple added podcasts to iTunes, helping them reach a wide audience.
Podcasts surged in popularity in 2014, when a true crime podcast became a cultural phenomenon. That same year, International Podcast Day was founded by Steve Lee and partners. Today, millions of podcasts exist, covering news, comedy, education, history and more.
Why International Podcast Day Matters
Podcasts make learning and entertainment accessible anytime, anywhere.
They give independent creators a platform to share their voices.
Podcasts also build communities around shared interests, from niche hobbies to big ideas.
Podcasts are also an accessible way to learn. Listeners can explore history, science, languages and current events while commuting, exercising or doing chores. For people with visual impairments or those who learn better by listening, podcasts offer an alternative to reading. Many teachers now assign podcast episodes alongside traditional readings.
How to Celebrate International Podcast Day
- Listen to a new podcast: try a show on a topic you love.
- Share a favorite: recommend an episode to a friend.
- Start your own: record a podcast with a phone.
- Support creators: leave a review or rating.
- Listen with family: choose a family-friendly show for a road trip.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share podcast recommendations or start a team podcast club. In classrooms, students can create their own podcasts to practice research, writing and speaking skills, or analyze how podcasts tell stories. At home, families can listen to podcasts together during car rides, or record a family podcast interviewing grandparents. Check that shows are age-appropriate.
Fun Facts About International Podcast Day
- The word 'podcast' was coined in 2004.
- Podcasts were added to iTunes in 2005.
- International Podcast Day was founded in 2014.
International Podcast Day FAQs
When is International Podcast Day?
International Podcast Day is September 30.
Who coined the word podcast?
Journalist Ben Hammersley, in 2004.
How do I start a podcast?
You can begin with a smartphone, a quiet room and free editing software.
Are podcasts free?
Many are free; some offer paid subscriptions.