August Podcast Roundup: The New News

In recent years, audiences have become increasingly disillusioned by traditional news coverage. In fact, 4 in 10 Americans say they have no confidence in the media’s news reporting. So it comes as no surprise that cable news ratings have decreased considerably and social media interactions with political content have also plummeted.

But fear not. News podcasts are on the scene, providing on-demand access to journalists, thought leaders, and changemakers who take a human-first approach on news reporting. No wonder news listeners find podcasts to be 10x more authentic and trustworthy than cable/broadcast TV, and 7x more authentic and trustworthy than streaming video. Disrupt the dreary news cycle and align with SiriusXM Media’s robust slate of trusted titles this election season and beyond. 

Where Race, Justice, and Culture Collide

Drawing from her decades-long experience in politics, Joy Reid kicks off MSNBC’s primetime lineup with her signature interview show, The ReidOut. As a proud woman of color, Reid frequently addresses the intersection of race, justice, and culture in her reporting. Plus, she’s always ready to stir the pot with politicians and tackle challenging topics. This bodes well for the two in three news listeners who say that podcasts allow them to hear from diverse creators and storytellers.

Around the World in Eighty Minutes

A whopping 85% of Crooked Media listeners tune in to podcasts to stay up to date on news and current events (138 index). Luckily, Pod Save The World delivers, bringing listeners weekly educational episodes that break down international news and foreign policy developments in a fun and exciting way. Hosted by Pod Save America’s Tommy Vietor and former Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes, the duo have cultivated a powerful show that earned a Webby Award for best news and politics podcast. 

The Early Bird Special

Start each day with a cup of Morning Joe, featuring MSNBC’s top reporters Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Willie Geist. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up for your brand strategy, granting a unique opportunity to tap into an audience of highly-educated baby boomers. Not to mention, the hosts' passion for politics shines through in every well-informed discussion with Washington insiders, newsmakers, and cultural influencers. With daily episodes that air like clockwork, advertisers can be a companion to the 65% of news podcast listeners that tune in while getting ready for the day (115 index).

Limited Series, Unlimited Potential

Pod Save America’s Jon Favreau enlists the help of some of the smartest strategists, pollsters, and organizers in the fight for democracy. Every episode of The Wilderness speaks to where we are as a nation, where we’re headed, and how to get there. Young and curious minds will learn why their vote matters and what they can do to make a splash in the real world. Crooked Media listeners gravitate toward hosts that drive real world change, with one in two saying they expect podcasters to use their platform for social good (129 index).  And Jon Favreu delivers, having established himself as a trusted voice in politics with over 1M social media followers and counting. 

Our Future Starts Now

Thanks to the daunting nature of today’s top stories, two in three Americans always or often feel exhausted when thinking about politics. However, Claire McCaskill and Jennifer Palmieri, hosts of How to Win 2024, are on a mission to make politics fun again, all while helping people cast their ballot. The powerhouse duo strives to answer hard-hitting questions like “How do you win over voters—of ANY party—when mistrust in leadership is at an all-time high?” This audiences is predominantly female, and they can’t get enough of Claire and Jennifer’s enthusiastic take on US politics. 

Women Reign Supreme

Get the latest deets on Supreme Court drama every week on Crooked Media’s Strict Scrutiny. Hosted by three outspoken ladies and brilliant legal minds, Melissa Murray, Kate Shaw, and Leah Litman, this award-winning title offers fresh perspectives on landmark cases, legal trends, and the highest court in the land. With a dedicated and growing audience—93% of whom have earned a Bachelor’s Degree or higher—advertisers have a chance to connect with engaged citizens who are passionate about law, justice, and civil rights. 

Interested in advertising on one of these shows? Chat with us today.