International Podcast Day

Get Your Headphones Ready, International Podcast Day Is Almost Here! Hey there, podcast lovers! Mark your calendars for September 30th, because International Podcast Day 2026 is right around the corner. Are you tuning in or joining the celebration this year? From true crime to comedy, education to entertainment, podcasts have a special way of connecting people and sparking ideas across the world. So, let’s dive in and see what makes this day such a big deal for creators and listeners alike!

Key Takeaways:

• International Podcast Day is celebrated every year on September 30.
• It honors both podcast creators and the global community of listeners.
• Podcasts offer information, inspiration, and entertainment anytime, anywhere.
• The term “podcast” was coined in 2004 by journalist Ben Hammersley.
• Over 55% of Americans aged 12+ listen to podcasts at least once a month.

What Is International Podcast Day?

Every year on September 30, we hit “play” on one of the most exciting celebrations in modern media, International Podcast Day! It’s a day for podcast lovers everywhere to discover new shows, share their favorites, or even take the leap and start recording their own.

Podcasts have completely changed how we consume stories, news, and entertainment. Whether you’re tuning in during your morning commute, while working out, or just winding down after a long day, podcasts bring a perfect mix of information, inspiration, and fun straight to your ears. So, at its heart, International Podcast Day is all about celebrating the creators, technology, and community that make podcasting so special.

Interesting Facts About International Podcast Day

Here are some interesting facts about International Podcast Day:

1. The term "podcast" was coined in 2004 by journalist Ben Hammersley, blending "iPod" and "broadcast."
2. International Podcast Day originated in 2014 as National Podcast Day and was subsequently rebranded to connect podcasters and listeners worldwide.
3. Podcasts exploded in popularity in the 2010s and early 2020s.
4. About 55% of Americans aged 12 and older tune in to a podcast at least once a month.
5. As of September 2025, there are over 4.5 million podcasts worldwide, with approximately 584 million listeners tuning in across the globe.
6. The most popular podcast genre in the United States tends to be comedy.
7. Unlike broadcast radio, which follows a schedule, podcasts are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

When Is International Podcast Day?

International Podcast Day is celebrated on September 30 every year. This day is all about raising awareness of podcasts, honoring the medium, and encouraging people to get involved. It’s also a chance for podcasters to connect, share their stories, and introduce their shows to more listeners.

Future International Podcast Day Dates

History Of International Podcast Day

The idea of International Podcast Day began in 2013 when Steve Lee, a passionate podcaster and community builder, was inspired after hearing National Senior Citizens Day mentioned on the radio. He wanted a day to celebrate the growing world of podcasts.

Steve Lee officially created the first observance in 2014 as National Podcast Day under Modern Life Network. Although the first podcast aired back in 2004, the medium quickly captured the imagination of listeners worldwide. The first National Podcast Day featured a six-hour-long broadcast, celebrating both the entertainment and community that podcasts foster.

As the popularity of podcasts grew internationally, the event was rebranded in 2015 as International Podcast Day to recognize its global reach. Today, the day is celebrated on September 30, with participants from nearly 100 countries taking part. Over the years, more than 200 hours of live streams have showcased 360 podcasters sharing stories, insights, and their journeys in the world of podcasting.

International Podcast Day now encourages creators and listeners to connect, share their favorite shows, and celebrate the rapid growth of the podcasting industry. It’s a day that honors not just the technology and art of podcasting, but also the global community it has built.

How To Celebrate International Podcast Day?

International Podcast Day is your invitation to celebrate the incredible power of voice and storytelling that only podcasts can deliver. Whether you’re a devoted listener or just starting to explore the podcast world, there are plenty of ways to join in on the fun.

Here are the top 5 ways to celebrate International Podcast Day 2026!

1. Join Local and Global Events

International Podcast Day is packed with events across the globe. From live shows to online meetups, there’s something for everyone. Take part in your local events or connect with podcasters and fans worldwide. It’s a perfect day to bond over laughter, favorite episodes, and shared podcast love.

2. Create an episode

Why not make an episode just for the occasion? You could do a “best of” episode highlighting your favorite moments, or even dedicate one to your listeners. It’s a fun way to celebrate your podcast and show appreciation for your audience.

3. Launch Something New

Thinking about starting a new podcast or side project? International Podcast Day is the perfect time to preview or launch it. Collaborate with fellow podcasters, share your ideas, and give listeners something exciting to look forward to.

4. Encourage Listener Engagement

Ask your listeners to subscribe, leave comments, or share their favorite moments from your show. Your audience is the heartbeat of your podcast — they spread the word, join discussions, and keep the community alive.

5. Share with the Official Hashtag #InternationalPodcastDay

Don’t forget to join the global conversation! Use #InternationalPodcastDay on social media to connect with other fans, share your favorite podcasts, and spread the podcast love with friends, coworkers, or teammates.

Conclusion

International Podcast Day is a shout-out to all the voices that keep us company and open our minds to new ideas. It’s a day to celebrate stories, creativity, and the incredible variety of podcasts available today. No matter your interests, September 30th, 2026, is a day you won’t want to miss. So mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who was the first podcaster in the world?

While the term ‘podcast’ didn’t exist yet, Radio Open Source by Christopher Lydon is considered the first podcast when it launched back in 2003

2. What is the #1 podcast in the world?

The Joe Rogan Experience is often cited as the #1 podcast in the world.

3. What is a podcast used for?

Podcasts are perfect for entertainment, learning, and connecting with communities. They allow creators to share stories, interviews, and discussions on countless topics with audiences worldwide