According to market analysts Demand Sage, there will be almost 505 million global podcast listeners by 2024, with more than five million podcasts currently available across the world, comprising 70 million-plus episodes in over 150 languages, with demand for video podcast production at an all-time high.
So the statistics speak for themselves. Meanwhile, industry insiders predict that next year will see a rise in live podcasting, AI-powered broadcasts plus a growth in those focusing on subjects such as mental health and education. Meanwhile, ways of making money in this sphere are expanding beyond standard advertising.
So the pace of change is rapid, and the next 12 months are set to be crucial ones for the sector. We look ahead to the key events of 2024 for anyone using podcasting to grow their business (or create a new one). Here is the ultimate list of Podcast Conferences to watch for in 2024!
Podcast Conferences In The US & Canada
PODFEST Expo – January 25-28, Wyndham Orlando International Drive
This event has been going since 2015 and features engaging speakers, exciting topics and in-depth content. It’s billed as the world’s longest continuously held, annual, in-person podcast conference, while organisers are expecting a record-setting turnout for the tenth PODFEST. It’s set to attract both independent creators and global brands. Last year, the Expo Hall was the main focus of the event.
Thinking of attending? You can buy tickets here.
Social Media Marketing World® – February 18-20, San Diego Convention Center
Hosted by Social Media Examiner, this event has been held since 2013. While it’s not strictly speaking a podcasting event, we include it here because many key podcasters attend and speak at it. Equally, as a podcaster you’re likely to move in the spheres of digital marketing or online creation.
The options for registration are outlined here.
Our team from Music Radio Creative will be attending this event. Make sure to connect with us there!
Evolutions 2024 – March 26-29, JW Marriott at L.A. Live, Los Angeles
This four-day event features more than 100 workshops, breakout sessions, panels and keynote talks from some of the best in the industry, focusing on podcasting’s changing landscape. There are some unbeatable networking opportunities, a rich social backdrop plus an expo/trade show involving hundreds of companies in the business showcasing their products.
There are essentially three strands occurring simultaneously, aimed respectively at podcasters, industry pros and beginners, with some combined events. Register here.
Podcast Movement – August 19-22, Gaylord National Resort (near Washington D.C.)
Since 2014, Podcast Movement has drawn thousands of delegates from across the globe. In its tenth anniversary year, it comes to the American capital for the first time. It’s one of the sector’s biggest gatherings, encompassing four days of scores of educational sessions and workshops plus outstanding networking and parties, not to mention a huge expo and trade show. There are more than 10 content stages across the event.
Choose from three different pass types in 2024 – Standard, Plus and Pro. You can register here.
ICON 9: Podcast Conference – September 13-14, Holiday Inn Philadelphia South – Swedesboro
This event brings together the independent podcasting community, including entrepreneurs, creatives and business owners. Get help navigating the technology, learn how to carve out your own niche and how to maximise the resources you have as you get started.
Contact organisers here to learn more.
Podsummit YYC – Calgary – Details to be confirmed
This brings together the Canadian podcasting community for an exciting, thought-provoking occasion, aimed at fostering engagement and collaboration plus a platform for every Canadian voice in the sector. The programme is set to include keynotes, workshops and live recordings plus networking opportunities.
Follow @PodSummit on X or other social media platforms to stay across further announcements, or sign up for the mailing list via the link above.
Podcast Conferences In The UK
The Podcast Advertising Summit – January 25, Barbican Centre, London
This day-long event champions podcasting as a media and advertising channel, and is held to educate markets and agencies on the benefits of podcasting for advertising and branded content. Understand what makes powerful podcast advertising, and appreciate the medium’s potential.
Learn about the developments in the sector, network with fellow professionals and hear case-study insights. Spotify Advertising is the headline partner, and you can book your place here.
The Podcast Show – May 22-23, Business Design Centre Islington, London
This is a massive global podcasting festival, with more than 350 world-class speakers, scores of panels and other sessions, global brands, the chance to network plus a lot more over two days. So it’s an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of podcasting.
By night, between 20 and 26 May, the Podcast Show LIVE offers a festival of real-time evening broadcasts. This is a week-long programme of stage shows, held across Islington. Expect exclusive performances and guests as your favourite shows are brought to life.
Last year, the Podcast Show drew visitors from more than 40 countries, so it’s not one to miss. Contact organisers to learn more.
Our team from Music Radio Creative will be attending this event. Find our booth to get some exclusive MRC freebies!
British Podcast Awards – Details to be confirmed
This awards scheme celebrates the best in British podcasting. The 2023 winners, encompassing a huge range of genres, were announced in late September and you can read more about them here. Sign up to hear about the 2024 podcast awards here.
Podcast Conference Favourites
Attending events can help your business tremendously. By connecting with like minded creators or potential business partners you can start off on the right foot and establish relationships that wouldn’t be possible otherwise.
Planning on attending any of these events? Or know of any others that aren’t mentioned here? Drop us a line – we’d love to hear from you.
