Greetings, aspiring media professionals! In today’s dynamic media landscape, BA (Hons) Mass Comm students, including those in SMS Varanasi, have a wealth of platforms to explore for storytelling and information dissemination. One platform that’s rapidly gaining traction is podcasting – an exciting alternative media format brimming with potential.

What is Podcasting and Why Should You Care?

Imagine a world where you can access in-depth conversations, captivating narratives, and insightful commentary – all on your own terms. Podcasting offers exactly that. Unlike traditional radio and TV programs with their fixed schedules and limitations, podcasts are downloadable audio files that you can listen to anytime, anywhere.

Creating a podcast requires minimal equipment – a microphone, editing software, a computer, and an internet connection. You can upload your finished product to popular streaming services like Spotify or Apple Podcasts, reaching a global audience hungry for engaging audio content.

The statistics speak for themselves! With over 464 million listeners worldwide (projected to reach 504.9 million by 2024), podcasting is experiencing phenomenal growth. The average podcast episode clocks in at a comfortable 20-40 minutes, making it the perfect companion for your commute, workout, or leisure time. Interestingly, women slightly outnumber men in the podcasting audience, with a staggering 104 million tuning in every month.

According to a 2023 survey, more than a quarter of Indians listen to podcasts at least once daily, while another 25% listen to podcasts one or more times per week. However, about three in 10 Indians do not listen to podcasts at all. Podcast listening has been growing among India’s audio streaming users since 2021 and podcasting is quickly emerging as a powerful alternative media platform.

A Glimpse into the Indian Podcasting Scene

India boasts a vibrant podcasting scene catering to diverse interests. From insightful discussions on finance with “Paisa Vaisa” to philosophical explorations with “On Purpose with Jay Shetty,” there’s something for everyone. 

Popular shows like “The Seen and the Unseen” and “The Ranveer Show” delve into current affairs and in-depth interviews, while “Finshots Daily” keeps you updated on the world of business. 

If laughter is your medicine, “Figuring Out with Raj Shamani” and “Cyrus Says” offer a healthy dose of humour and witty commentary.

Podcasting: A Boon for Mass Comm Students

As a BA (Hons) Mass Comm student, you can delve into the world of podcasting by identifying your passion point, whether it’s current affairs, business, or humour. You need to hone your research and storytelling skills to create in-depth content that caters to a specific audience and leverage the cost-effectiveness of this platform to experiment and build your voice in the exciting realm of alternative media. 

Podcasting provides a fantastic platform to showcase your abilities and experiment with a dynamic format. Here’s why podcasting should be on your radar as a foray into alternative media:

• Delve Deeper into Your Chosen Topic: Unlike traditional radio with its bite-sized content, podcasting allows for in-depth exploration of topics. You can craft episodes that delve into complex issues, fostering a more meaningful connection with your audience.

• Breaking Free from Limitations: Linear media like radio or TV often operates within a rigid format, with limited airtime and advertising breaks dictating the content. 

Podcasting empowers you as a creator. You have the freedom to choose your narrative style, episode length, and guest interviews – creating content that resonates with your vision.

• Focus on Your Ideal Listener: Traditional media often caters to the broad masses to attract advertisers. Podcasting, as an alternative media platform, lets you target a specific niche audience. This allows you to tailor your content, language, and topics to resonate with a community that truly shares your passion.

• Cost-Effective Platform: Compared to traditional media production, podcasting offers a much lower barrier to entry. The minimal equipment requirements and readily available platforms make it an attractive option for budding Mass Comm students to experiment and develop their skills.

The Future of Traditional Media and Podcasting as an Alternative Media Option

While podcasting presents a powerful alternative media platform, it isn’t necessarily the death knell for traditional media. Established broadcasters like the BBC, Doordarshan, ABP News, and CNN will likely continue to hold value in breaking news situations where immediacy remains key.

However, podcasting’s rise does pose a significant challenge to traditional radio. The declining audience numbers for radio can be attributed, in part, to the rise of on-demand music streaming services like Spotify. Here’s where podcasting shines – offering in-depth analysis, diverse voices, and a listening experience tailored to individual preferences.

The Takeaway: Embrace the Podcasting Revolution

The world of media is constantly evolving, and as future media professionals, BA (Hons) Mass Comm students at SMS Varanasi are advised to be proactive and position themselves at the forefront of these changes. Podcasting presents a compelling opportunity to hone your skills, engage with a global audience, and become a part of this exciting audio revolution.

So, the next time you’re brainstorming content ideas, consider the power of podcasting. It could be the perfect platform to launch your career and connect with listeners on a deeper level, all while exploring the vast potential of alternative media in today’s ever-changing landscape.