The Ear Hustle podcast provides an unprecedented look into prison life through the lens of current and formerly incarcerated inmates at San Quentin State Prison. By showcasing these experiences in a new and engaging format, the podcast is bringing marginalized voices to mainstream audiences.

Podcasts are changing the media landscape by providing an open space for creators and audiences to meet on equal terms. As podcasts garner increased trust and loyalty from listeners compared with other types of media, could they be a future space where brands can talk directly to customers?

Pandemic lockdowns forced many to go online to find entertainment. Thanks to its more informal format, podcasts became a hit among Brazilians, collecting listeners across ages and regions – making the medium a great place for brands to foster engagement through a more personal connection.

With its acquisition of Gimlet Media and Anchor, Spotify is setting its sights on becoming the go-to destination for podcasts. It’s a sign of the medium’s growing influence as brands seek ways to tap engaged and young audiences who want immersive narratives that can hold their attention.