Lessons from the "Podcast Election" – Audio’s Role in Politics

This week's MRT episode was recorded Monday, but with podcast hosts like Theo Von and "the mighty and powerful Joe Rogan" being called out from the stage during President Re-elect Donald Trump's acceptance speech last night, our conversation about the impact of audio (podcast in particular) in the 2024 election is even more poignant than we could have anticipated. 

Politicians have finally learned what savvy CAOs have known for years: podcast works! That said, we invite you to dive into this week's MRT episode, "Podcast Election" – Audio's Role in Politics. Buckle up–it's going to be a ride…

Dan Granger, (CEO of Oxford Road & Veritone One) hosts Kraig Kitchin, (Senior Strategic Advisor for Oxford Road & Bonafide Audio Legend), Neal Lucey (EVP of Strategy & Product, Oxford Road), and Tess Ryan, (Associate Media Director, Oxford Road) to understand how audio shaped the 2024 election, while also taking a look at the future.

The team is talking: the “Podcast Election”, unlocking audio budgets, civility, and more. Let’s dive deeper.

“There is room in America for civility. Honest to goodness conversation – an exchange of ideas without having to insult individuals.”

The Podcast Election 🎙️- Since 2016, the number of podcast listeners has more than doubled – now at 135M monthly (Edison Research). In a fragmented and frantic media landscape, being able to reach that magnitude of the electorate in a friendly, long-form environment is invaluable. 

More Money Next Time? 💸 - While both campaigns put extensive effort into reaching podcast audiences using the power of guest spots, audio ad dollars were minimal (2% budget for Harris and less than 1% for Trump). Note to future campaign managers, may we suggest joining our CAO Club?

Civility, Civility, Civility 🤝 - We all witnessed how uncivil remarks can shape a campaign. We may sound like a broken record now, but civility matters (requisite plug for our partner Seekr’s Civility Score). For those looking to support civil political content going forward, tune in for a peek at some of our Civility All-Stars.

Whatever your perceptions may be, and however you’re feeling right now, there’s no denying that audio was a key player in shaping this election–and many to come. For more insights, tune into our full episode below.

Bianca Gorodinsky