Spotify, SoundCloud, Deezer, Apple Music, Tidal – all offer playlists that are curated to users’ individual preferences. But are we taking notice of the music we consume on a daily basis or are algorithms pushing us into echo chambers that dramatically alter our tastes to enjoy more of the same?

With 3.5 million regular listeners, the podcast phenomenon has arrived Down Under. Aussies are enjoying this intimate mode of storytelling at home and in cars on their daily commute. So what’s the lure for busy Australians? And how can brands best tap into their invigorated interest?

From helping nervous brides-to-be prep for their big day to solving true crime on your morning commute, podcasts are growing and diversifying their offerings. Now, Spotify has launched a feature that brings personalised podcasts to listeners, with bespoke content that matches their interests.

Various police departments across the States are launching their own podcasts, tapping into the craze for true-crime narratives. By meeting demands for engaging audio content, police departments are hoping to leverage the trend in order to repair their public image.