Since I started in this industry nearly three years ago, podcast newsletters have been an incredible resource to help me understand the fast-moving podcast landscape.
There are a lot of options out there when it comes to deciding what to subscribe to, so we’ve created a resource to help discover and compare podcast newsletters. Whether you want to learn more about the industry, find a job or develop your craft, we’ve got a newsletter for you!
You can find a spreadsheet here which provides an at a glance look at what newsletters you should subscribe to if you are looking for:
Industry News and Analysis
Job Listings
Podcast Recommendations
Creativity and Craft Advice
Career Advice
We also go into more detail below about what you can expect from each newsletter to help you decide if it is for you.
Some housekeeping notes:
For the sake of brevity we have opted not to include newsletters from production companies
We have definitely missed some, please tweet us your recommendations - find us @messageheard
And, we will update the list with new submissions and newsletters in due course!
Podcast Industry News
Podcasting is a nascent market, which means things move fast. Luckily, there are some really great newsletters which provide everything from daily digests to in depth analysis.
The Audio Insurgent - Eric Nuzum’s newsletter sits somewhere between industry analysis and advice on audio craft. Sign up for insightful thought leadership.
Hot Pod - In this weekly newsletter, Nick Quah and a rotating cast of contributors unpack industry news and deeper trends.
I Hear Things - Weekly newsletter from Tom Webster covering industry trends, tech updates and audience insights.
Inside Podcasting - This is a handy digest of updates delivered to your inbox three times a week. A great way to stay on top of industry headlines.
Matt on Audio - A UK focused thought leadership newsletter by Matt Deagan, one of the founders of the British Podcast Awards. Expect a mixture of Radio and Podcast analysis.
Podnews - This daily newsletter edited by James Crindland is a must subscribe for anyone in the industry. It provides a daily digest that can be skimmed on busy days.
Sounds Profitable - This weekly newsletter is a one stop shop for updates about adtech from Bryan Barletta.
Podcast Industry Insights
These newsletters speak to the people working or hoping to work in the industry. If you are looking to improve your craft or feel a sense of kinship with fellow podcasters, these all offer something a bit different.
Formats Unpacked - This isn’t technically a podcast newsletter but is a great read for anyone interested in formats and concepts. Each addition a guest contributor unpacks popular formats from across the media like and breaks down why it is successful. You can read archived additions on Drag Race, 99% Invisible, Gogglebox, Reply All and more.
NPR Training - This is an amazing resource for reporters, producers and audio journalists full of practical tips and clear technical guides.
Sound Money - In her fortnightly newsletter, Em Kwenortey anonymously interviews people in audio about their careers, money and the state of play in the industry. Subscribe for candid advice served with a side of shade.
Podcast Recommendations
1.5 Speed, Vulture - Nick Quah is back again. This time with his weekly recommendation newsletter for Vulture.
The Bello Collective - Bello do amazing things for the podcasting community, and really could have gone in any of these categories but I especially love their thoughtful, curated recommendations from wide ranging contributors.
Great British Podcasts - Run by the team behind the British Podcast Awards, get the best of british podcasting in your inbox each week.
Earbuds Collective - Each addition, a guest curates five episodes on a different theme. Recent additions have included collections on human connection, ageing, and podcasts that intersect true crime and music.
Hear Here - A weekly missive from The Guardian, stay on top of the latest new releases.
Podbible - This UK based magazine also have a newsletter jammed packed with recommendations.
Podcast Delivery - Each newsletter they only highlight one podcast, so you know it’s a good un’.
Podcast Gumbo - Paul Kondo writes a short but sweet newsletter each week with three recommendations. I really like the focus on episodes rather than series as it can help you discover some surprising shows!
Podcast The Newsletter - Lauren Passel really knows her podcasts. Each week she interviews someone in the industry and shares a comprehensive list of recommendations. And all I will say about her choices: expect the unexpected.
Podcast Review - This weekly round-up from the LA Review of Books is always full of surprising gems.
There you have it, our guide of podcast newsletters you should be subscribing to in 2021. If we have missed anything, please let us know - you can reach us on Twitter or email contact@messageheard.com.