The pain points of podcast management: How automation on IFTTT can help

If you are reading this blog then perhaps you are already a fan of listening to podcasts. I myself am a late bloomer who has just recently dipped my toes into the sprawling sea of on-demand audio content. As I began to understand the world of podcasts I naturally had some questions:

Question 1: What's the big deal?

Let's ask the experts!

Tom Hanks, renowned actor and podcast lover, says, "Podcasts provide an intimate connection to stories and ideas that would otherwise be inaccessible. It's a revolutionary platform for knowledge and entertainment."

Gina Trapani, tech blogger and podcaster, points out, "Podcasts break the mold of traditional media by allowing anyone with a microphone and a story to reach a global audience."

"Podcasts are the big deal because they bring a world of ideas to your fingertips," as an author and podcaster Malcolm Gladwell reminds us.

Question 2: Why should I bother? What are the main benefits of listening to podcasts?

Expand your knowledge: Podcasts cover a vast range of topics from science to history, arts to politics. You can learn about almost anything, often from experts in the field.

Improve language skills: For non-native English speakers, listening to podcasts can help improve language abilities. Various accents, tones, and vocabularies are a great learning resource.

Stay informed and updated: Many podcasts discuss current events and trends, helping you stay updated on the world around you.

Flexibility: Whether driving, cleaning, or exercising, podcasts provide the convenience of consuming content when you're multitasking.

Entertainment: With an endless variety of storytelling podcasts, you can travel to different worlds, meet interesting characters, and enjoy captivating tales.

Personal development: Numerous podcasts focus on self-improvement and mental health, providing guidance on personal growth and well-being.

Free content: Most podcasts are free to download or stream, making them an affordable form of entertainment and education.

Networking: Many industries have specific podcasts that can help you stay connected and network within your professional field.

Question 3: So what's the downside here?

What are the potential pitfalls of making Podcasts a part of your weekly routine?

Here is a list of the most common drawbacks for your average podcast junkie:

1. Limited time: Many people struggle to find time to listen to podcasts due to their busy schedules. Finding a dedicated time slot can be challenging.

2. Overwhelming choices: With the abundance of podcasts available, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to listen to. This can lead to decision fatigue and difficulty in finding content that aligns with personal interests.

3. Discoverability: Discovering new podcasts that cater to specific interests can be difficult. There is a need for better search and recommendation systems to help users find relevant content.

4. Audio quality: Poor audio quality can be a major pain point for podcast listeners. Background noise, low volume, or inconsistent audio levels can make it difficult to enjoy the content.

5. Lack of transcripts: Many podcasts do not provide transcripts, making it challenging for individuals with hearing impairments or those who prefer reading to access the content. Transcripts can also be useful for quickly referencing specific information.

6. Inconsistent release schedules: Some podcasts have irregular release schedules, which can frustrate listeners who expect new episodes at specific times. This inconsistency can disrupt the listening routine.

7. Advertisements: While advertisements are a common way for podcasters to monetize their content, excessive or intrusive ads can be disruptive and annoying for listeners.

8. Limited offline access: Not all podcast platforms allow for easy offline access to episodes. This can be inconvenient for listeners who want to enjoy podcasts during commutes or in areas with limited internet connectivity.

9. Lack of interactivity: Podcasts are typically a one-way communication medium, lacking opportunities for direct interaction with hosts or other listeners. This can limit engagement and community-building.

10. Difficulty in organizing and managing subscriptions: As the number of subscribed podcasts grows, it can become challenging to organize and manage them effectively. A centralized solution for managing subscriptions and tracking listened-to episodes would be beneficial.

Question 4: Is it possible that IFTTT could eliminate these problems like a skilled sailor navigating through rough seas, and guide you safely to the shore of organized and painless podcast management?

Answer: Yes, and here are some examples of the most popular podcasts on IFTTT and how users can automate them with what we call IFTTT Applets:

For a full list of podcasts on IFTTT, visit https://ifttt.com/explore/services/podcasts

If you don't see what you're looking for or if you have your own podcast and want your listeners to be able to access it on IFTTT then email us at marketing@ifttt.com and we will do our best to get you listed!