A podcast is a series of audio or video episodes on a specific topic that you can stream or download on demand through apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. You can follow a show and new episodes arrive automatically, so you can listen whenever and wherever you like. This beginner’s guide explains what a podcast is, how podcasts work, the main types, and how to start listening (or start your own).
What is a podcast? A simple definition
A podcast is like an on-demand radio or TV show. Each show has a theme, one or more hosts, and a collection of episodes. You pick a show you like, listen to one episode or binge the whole series, and follow it to get new episodes as soon as they are published. The word “podcast” comes from combining “iPod” (Apple’s old music player) and “broadcast”. Today, you don’t need an iPod: podcasts play on phones, computers, smart speakers, cars and TVs.Key podcast terms
- Show: the podcast as a whole, e.g. a weekly business podcast.
- Episode: a single audio or video file within the show.
- Host (podcaster): the person who presents the show.
- Guest: someone invited onto an episode to share their story or expertise.
- Follow (subscribe): tapping follow so new episodes appear automatically, usually for free.
- RSS feed: the behind-the-scenes link that sends new episodes to podcast apps.
- Podcast host (hosting platform): the service that stores episodes and creates the RSS feed.
How do podcasts work?
- A creator records and edits an episode.
- They upload it to a podcast hosting platform such as Buzzsprout, Podbean or Spotify for Creators.
- The hosting platform updates the show’s RSS feed.
- Podcast apps such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube read the feed and show the new episode.
- Listeners who follow the show get the new episode automatically and can stream it or download it to listen offline.
Audio vs video podcasts
Podcasts started as audio-only, and most can still be enjoyed with just your ears. In 2026, many shows are also published as video on YouTube and Spotify, so you can watch the hosts as well as listen. The content is usually the same; video simply adds another way to enjoy it.Popular types of podcasts
- Interview podcasts: a host talks with a different guest each episode.
- Conversational or co-hosted shows: two or more hosts chat about a topic.
- Solo podcasts: one host shares knowledge, opinions or stories.
- Narrative and storytelling podcasts: scripted, documentary-style series.
- Educational podcasts: lessons, tips and how-to content.
- News podcasts: daily or weekly updates and analysis.
- True crime: real-life cases, investigations and mysteries.
- Comedy: funny conversations, sketches and improv.
- Fiction (audio drama): scripted stories with voice actors and sound design.
Where can you listen to podcasts?
- Spotify (audio and video podcasts)
- Apple Podcasts (iPhone, iPad, Mac and web)
- YouTube and YouTube Music
- Amazon Music and Audible
- Pocket Casts, Overcast and other podcast apps
- Podcast websites with embedded players
Why are podcasts so popular?
- Convenient: listen while commuting, exercising, cooking or relaxing.
- Endless choice: there are shows on almost every topic you can imagine.
- Personal: hearing a host’s voice builds a close, trusted connection.
- Free and on demand: listen to what you want, when you want.
- Easy to create: anyone with a phone or microphone can start a show.