Kids podcasting is a unique sub-universe within the audio ecosystem—with distinct listening behaviors (co-listening, repeat listening), tighter regulations, and evolving monetization models. Our GM, Jemma Rose Brown, alongside Joe Fucigna, recently hosted a meetup of kids podcasters to uncover what’s shaping the space right now. Here are the key takeaways:
👨‍👩‍👧 Co-Listening Reigns Supreme
“92% of our shows are co-listened to,” shared one participant—meaning parents and kids listen to shows together. And yes, kids often influence household purchases.
🎯 Two Audiences to Win Over
“We have to rope the parents in first, and then the content has to resonate with the kids.” Because of this additional audience hurdle, cross-promotions play a major role in discovery.
đź’ˇ Wildly Experimental Revenue Models
Because there are more advertising regulations with podcasts made for kids, podcasters have to get creative with revenue. The creators we met with are producing live shows, toys, books, brand partnerships, and memberships like pen-pal programs and livestream listening parties. “We see our work more as IP development than a traditional podcast” said one participant.
đź“ş Screen-Free in the Video Era?
Many parents turn to podcasts for a screen-free alternative where “imaginations can grow.” Now that video has become critical to the podcast business, kids podcasters are rewriting that value prop. We heard about podcasters testing out live action shows, puppet hosts and animations.
What trends are you seeing in kids podcasting? Let us know in the comments 👇
Thanks to the creators and leaders who joined the conversation: Joon Chung (Mighty Picnic) | Meredith Halpern-Ranzer | Lynn Kestin Sessler (PGA) | Alan Goffinski (WNYC Radio) | Rebecca Cunningham (Cordelia Studios) | Sari Soffer Sukenik (Mo News) | Jim Stauffer, Karen Martin (HOThead Creative) | Molly Socha | Adizah Eghan | Miral Sattar