Google’s Missteps and the Impact on Podcasters #584

New Media Show

In this episode of the new media show, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss a range of topics related to the podcasting industry, including their experiences at Podcast Movement Evolutions, the Google Podcast shutdown, YouTube’s presence at Podcast Movement, and other industry news

Todd discusses his observations at Podcast Movement, describing it as business-oriented and sharing his uncertainty about the value of having a booth at future events. They both agree that despite making some connections, they could have possibly done the same without a booth.

Rob then shifts the conversation to ask why the event was moved to Chicago, to which Todd doesn’t have a definitive answer but comments on the booth pricing for future events, mentioning that it’s an early-bird special.

They move onto the topic of YouTube’s presentation at Podcast Movement, with Todd expressing his disappointment. He criticizes YouTube for coming off as condescending and ignoring feedback from podcast creators. Despite their claims, Rob laments YouTube’s focus on video instead of genuinely embracing podcasting.

The conversation proceeds to Google Podcasts, with Todd articulating his displeasure at Google’s decision to shut it down in the US. Todd and Rob speculate about the reasoning behind Google’s choices and discuss the implications for podcasters and listeners, particularly the loss of a native Android podcasting app. Todd voices his concerns about how the shutdown signals Google’s preference for monetization through YouTube.

Todd mentions the decline of trustworthiness in Google and the changes in its strategy that undermine podcasters and the industry. Rob shares insight into Libsyn’s strategy regarding YouTube and the broader context of ad sales within the industry.

Moving on, they critique the presentation by YouTube at Podcast Movement, calling it a missed opportunity to engage relevantly with podcast creators. They also note that YouTube failed to address the core podcasting community effectively.

Todd continues the discussion, pointing out the general lack of traffic to booths on the final day of the podcast movement and reflecting on the potential waste of resources. Todd and Rob then discuss the broader challenges the podcasting industry faces, including the decline in new podcasts, layoffs, and the potential need to raise hosting prices due to inflation.

The episode wraps up with Rob and Todd hoping for industry apps to gain users following the demise of Google Podcasts, emphasizing their commitment to supporting podcasters with new features and revenue opportunities.

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