Podcasting is an industry bursting with passionate creators, producers, and hosts. Where better to network with podcast insiders than a conference or event?
As much as we’ve become accustomed to a Zoom call, there’s nothing quite like meeting people face-to-face, particularly podcasters, brands, and executives who could easily become your next employee hire, cross-promotional partner, show distributor, interview guest, or advertiser.
So whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or a new producer just starting out, here are the top podcast events and conferences that offer valuable insights on how to scale your podcast, in addition to networking opportunities and storytelling inspiration.
But First, Are Podcasts Conferences Worth It?
Like any other industry, conferences are only worth it if you approach them with an objective. Figure out what you are trying to achieve, such as knowledge sharing around production techniques or networking with a specific person or network, and shape your attendance around it.
Many organizers allow you to book meetings with other attendees ahead of the event, typically via the conference app or a dedicated social media group. To maximize your time at the event, research some names and figure out if any of them can add value to your trip and, moreso, what value or support you can provide to them to help nurture a larger relationship.
Make the Most of Networking Opportunities
Podcasting brands will often throw networking events, breakfasts, or after parties. Try to attend as many as possible – if only for a free cup of coffee (or tea, if you make it to a British conference). These events are full of other nervous attendees who will be grateful for an old-fashioned chat. Remember: not everything at a conference has to be serious!
If you’re an indie podcaster, attending a conference can feel like a leap of faith. Depending on the event, there will be some sessions that will be invitation-only. However, there’s still plenty to explore, regardless of your podcast’s audience numbers. By spending time networking on LinkedIn before the event, you can get a better picture of who will be in attendance.
Catch The Podglomerate at Your Next Podcast Conference
The Podglomerate’s team regularly attends and speaks at podcast conferences including SXSW, Podcast Business Summit (formerly Hot Pod Summit), Podcast Movement, and The Podcast Show, so be sure to sign up for our email newsletter to stay in the know of where we’re going so you can say hello in person!
What If I Can’t Afford a Podcast Convention?
There are a few ways to attend podcast conferences if you have a smaller budget. If you run a podcast newsletter or have an engaged following on LinkedIn, your best bet is reaching out to the conference organizers to inquire about a media or press pass. In the spirit of podcast cross-promotions, offer free advertising or coverage in exchange for a ticket. Since the lower ticket tiers typically don’t have any bells and whistles included, there’s a good chance that the conference’s team may agree to your proposal.
If the cost remains prohibitive, consider attending a local conference or booking a free podcast event online. And if all else fails, you could always throw your own podcasting meet-up next time you’re in town.
The Best Podcast Conferences and Events 2026
Podfest Expo
- When: January 15-18
- Where: Orlando, FL, USA
- Why Attend: Podfest Expo has been running for over a decade. Customize your experience by choosing from tracks like Creation and Launch, Artificial Intelligence, Monetization, and more. Connect with fellow creators and learn from industry experts.
- Cost: $107-2,135
On Air Fest
- When: February 23-26
- Where: Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Why Attend: Nicknamed the “Coachella of Podcasts” by Fast Company, this event is part industry conference for business professionals and executives, part festival of ideas for fans and up-and-upcoming creators. Held annually in Brooklyn, On Air Fest includes live podcast tapings, sonic art installations, and plenty of panels and networking moments.
- Cost: $131-621
On Air & Bloomberg’s Podcast Business Summit (formerly Hot Pod Summit)
- When: February 24
- Where: Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Why Attend: Hosted by Bloomberg’s Ashley Carman, Podcast Business Summit is an invite-only event held during On Air Fest and brings together the executives in podcasting, media, entertainment, and advertising shaping the future of the industry.
- Cost: Invite Only
South by Southwest (SXSW)
- When: March 12-18
- Where: Austin, TX, USA
- Why Attend: Since 1987, South by Southwest (SXSW) has been a world-renowned mecca for tech, film, music, education, and culture. And in recent years, it’s become a hub for podcast industry leaders and emerging voices to connect and grow.
- Cost: $1,495
Evolutions by Podcast Movement at SXSW
- When: March 13-15
- Where: Austin, TX, USA
- Why Attend: If you ask someone to name a podcasting conference, they’ll likely remember Evolutions. Stay at the forefront of podcasting with educational sessions, keynote talks, and networking events. In 2026, Evolutions will be an official SXSW partner event with free admission.
- Cost: Free with pre-registration
Listen back to our recorded panel discussion from Podcast Movement Evolutions 2025 featuring The Podglomerate’s Jeff Umbro, alongside The Signal Awards’ Jemma Brown and Master Plan’s David Sirota, discussing what it takes to win a podcast award.
Radiodays Europe
- When: March 22-24
- Where: Riga, Latvia
- Why Attend: Discover podcasting inspiration, the best audio innovations, the latest trends, and comprehensive data that you can use on your own show.
- Cost: €254-644
Radiodays North America
- When: May 4-6
- Where: Toronto, Canada
- Why Attend: A great Canadian conference for radio, podcasting, and digital audio professionals from around the world. Radioday North America is now part of the Departure Festival and Conference.
- Cost: $799-1099 CAD
The Podcast Show
- When: May 20-21
- Where: Islington, London, UK
- Why Attend: The biggest international festival for the podcasting business. With 350+ speakers, panels, and global industry brands, it’s a must-attend event.
- Cost: £59-295
International Women’s Podcast Awards
- When: TBC, likely June 2026
- Where: London, England
- Why Attend: The International Women’s Podcast Awards recognise moments of brilliance in podcasting and the women who produce them.
- Cost: TBC
True Crime Podcast Festival
- When: TBC, likely July 2026
- Where: Boston, MA, USA
- Why Attend: This conference brings together the True Crime content community to promote compassion, empathy, and respect in content creation, and consumption.
- Cost: TBC
Radiodays Asia
- When: TBC, likely September 2026
- Where: TBC
- Why Attend: Radiodays Asia is the international meeting point for the radio, audio and podcast industry in the Asia-Pacific. Its purpose is sharing experiences and learning about international media trends, new technology, content development and business opportunities.The conference is a collaboration between Radiodays Europe and broadcasting partners in Asia and Australia.
- Cost: TBC
Podsummit
- When: TBC, likely September 2026
- Where: Calgary, Canada
- Why Attend: This is Canada’s main podcasting event, aiming to amplify the Canadian podcast community by uniting creators, storytellers, and experts shaping podcasting.
- Cost: TBC
Podcast Movement
- When: September 2026
- Where: New York City, NY, USA
- Why Attend: The world’s largest podcast gathering. Connect with thousands of creators, learn from industry leaders, and immerse yourself in the podcasting community.
- Cost: TBC
Don’t miss our fantastic sessions from Podcast Movement 2024 with The Podglomerate’s Jeff Umbro and Joni Deutsch on how to create a podcast interview (that doesn’t suck) and the secrets to growing your podcast audience for free.
Resonate Festival
- When: TBC, likely October 2026
- Where: Richmond, VA, USA
- Why Attend: From the mind of Chioke I’Anson, the annual Resonate Festival acts as a spiritual successor to Third Coast Festival. Attend sound-rich storytelling and production-focused workshops with skilled hosts, editors, and producers, as well as special live performances, and the opportunity to get private pitch feedback from industry veterans.
- Cost: TBC
Online Podcast Events
If an in-person conference is beyond your reach, either for cost or accessibility reasons, then an online podcast event is a great alternative. The Podcasting for Business Conference is hosted annually and includes presentations and round-table discussions on topics such as video podcasting and monetization.
Another great online podcast event is the Brand Podcast Summit, typically hosted every January.
Keep your eyes peeled on LinkedIn or via podcast newsletters for the latest webinars and events from organizations like AIR and PRX. These events present great opportunities to expand your connections and ask any burning questions you have about audience growth, production, advertising, and beyond.
Whether you’re seeking knowledge, networking, or inspiration, podcast conferences offer something for every podcaster. Mark your calendar and make the most of these fantastic events!
Have questions? Interested in having The Podglomerate help grow your show? Email us at [email protected] to learn more about our services.
