Traditional media publicity has met its match—podcast PR offers deeper audience engagement, targeted reach, and lasting content value. Here’s why more brands, authors, and entrepreneurs are turning to podcasts to tell their story.
Gaming Industry Realignment, Pac-Man Donuts, and Price Increases
Welcome back to Digital Coffee: Gaming Brew! In this episode, host Brett Deister serves up a fresh batch of gaming news, trends, and hot takes from the world of PC and console gaming. Brett dives into everything from Krispy Kreme’s playful Pac-Man donut collab and the creative journey behind Expedi...
The Changing Landscape of PR: From Press Releases to Podcasts
Public relations has always been about telling the right story to the right audience at the right time. Traditionally, that meant pitching journalists, racing the news cycle, and hoping your message broke through the noise. But, as discussed on the recent episode of Digital Coffee: Marketing Brew with host Brett Deister and guest Michelle Glogovac, the evolution of podcasts has redefined what effective PR looks like in today’s media environment.
Podcasts are more than just another digital content channel—they’ve become a uniquely personal way to share knowledge, build empathy, and establish authority in any niche. As Michelle notes, podcasts “allow us to listen to stories we wouldn't otherwise hear...to gain knowledge, to be entertained, to laugh, to cry, and even to learn how to build a business.”
This personalization, combined with the flexibility and longevity of podcast content, creates a suite of advantages for savvy communicators ready to go beyond the press release.
Podcast PR vs. Traditional PR: What’s the Difference?
Traditional PR relies on press releases, pitching journalists, and navigating tight news deadlines. The hope is to land a quick hit—a brief TV segment or article placement—that introduces you to a large (but often generic) audience.
Podcast PR flips this script. Instead of fighting for a sliver of attention in a packed news cycle, PR professionals pitch podcast hosts, often hobbyists or side-hustlers, building meaningful, long-form conversations that can last anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes. Unlike traditional media’s brief segments, these interviews offer room to share your journey, expertise, and personality.
Plus, the process shifts from urgency to patience. Breaking news is less of a concern (unless you’re targeting news-centric shows), and scheduling is dictated by the host’s availability and production rhythm. As Michelle explains, follow-ups that might take a day with a journalist could take weeks with a podcaster.
The Power of Personal Connection
One of the most striking benefits of podcast PR is the trust it fosters with audiences. As Michelle highlights, podcast listeners tune in regularly because they trust the host. The moment you become a guest, that trust is extended to you. Instead of being a faceless name in print, your story is quite literally in the ears of listeners who have already bought in.
This dynamic “removes barriers and extends trust from the get-go”—a stark contrast to cold pitches or sponsored ads. It allows for authentic storytelling and much stronger resonance with highly targeted audiences, especially in niche industries or specialties.
Cost, Value, and Measuring Success
Podcast PR, surprisingly, isn’t just more personal—it’s often more cost-effective. Traditional PR agencies may charge $10,000 or more a month, chasing broad, sometimes ill-fitting audiences. Podcast PR, on the other hand, can range from $500 to $5,000 per month and offers a more targeted approach.
But it’s not about audience size alone. Michelle emphasizes, “you need to look at the value of who’s listening.” A marketing expert on a specialized podcast with 500 listeners may get more relevant exposure than on a TV spot seen by thousands outside their field.
Metrics for podcast success differ too. While downloads provide some insight, it’s engagement—reviews, social interactions, and repurposed content reach—that matter most. Podcast interviews live longer, create endless repurposing opportunities, and add SEO value far past their initial release.
Integrating Podcast PR with Broader Strategies
Podcast PR isn’t a replacement for traditional PR, but a vital complement. Combining both can multiply your brand authority, as long as your campaign is tailored for each format. For example, breaking news angles still belong with TV or print, while timeless “evergreen” expertise shines in podcast interviews.
The nimble, personable nature of podcasts also suits everyone from authors and entrepreneurs to introverts seeking an authentic platform—making it a must-consider for nearly any publicity campaign.
The Future of PR is Personal, Niche—and in Your Ear
Podcast PR is here to stay, offering richer connection, targeted messaging, and the unrivaled longevity of content. As Michelle concluded, “Podcasts allow us to get to know people we wouldn't otherwise hear from,” both democratizing thought leadership and making every story count. It’s never been easier—or more important—to put yourself out there, microphone in hand.
Ready to be heard? Pitch your next story to a podcast—and start building those real, lasting connections.