Podcasting is an industry bursting with passionate creators, producers, and hosts. Where better to network with podcast insiders than the best podcast conferences and events?
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 knows? Your next contact could easily become your newest 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 best podcast conferences and events that offer valuable insights, 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 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 Conference?
There are a few ways to attend the best podcast conferences and conventions 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 2025
Podfest Expo
- When: January 16-19
- 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: $99-849
She Podcasts Unplugged
- When: January 24-26 (2025 dates to be announced)
- Where: Orlando, FL, USA
- Why Attend: Designed by and for women, this event features female-identifying podcasters sharing their expertise. Enjoy networking, vendor expos, and nightly parties.
- Cost: TBC
Podcast Business Summit (formerly Hot Pod Summit)
- When: February 19, 8:00am-5:00pm
- Where: Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Why Attend: 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
On Air Fest
- When: February 19-21
- Where: Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Why Attend: Looking for a hipster podcasting conference? Look no further than On Air Fest, held annually in Brooklyn. Experience live stories, sonic art installations, and networking moments.
- Cost: $165-449
Evolutions by Podcast Movement
- When: March 31-April 3
- Where: Chicago, IL, 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.
- Cost: $199-1,299
The Podcast Show
- When: May 21-22
- Where: Islington, London, England
- Why Attend: The biggest international festival for the podcasting business. With 350+ speakers, panels, and global industry brands, it’s a must-attend podcast event.
- Cost: $61-252
Podcast Movement
- When: August 18-21
- Where: Dallas, TX, USA
- Why Attend: The world’s largest podcast conference. Connect with thousands of creators, learn from industry leaders, and immerse yourself in the podcasting community.
- Cost: $109-1,109
Don’t miss our fantastic content from last year’s Podcast Movement with 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: November 8-9
- Where: Richmond, VA, USA
- Why Attend: 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
South by Southwest (SXSW)
- When: March 7-15
- 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: $1395
International Women’s Podcast Festival
- When: Dates TBA
- Where: London, England
- Why Attend: An event that unites the global community of female innovators and leaders in podcasting, audio, and radio.
- Cost: TBC
Radiodays Europe
- When: March 9-11
- Where: Athens, Greece
- Why Attend: Discover podcasting inspiration, the best audio innovations, the latest trends, and comprehensive data that you can use on your own show.
- Cost: $436-768
Radiodays North America
- When: May 6-8
- 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: $899
Podsummit
- When: September 19-20
- 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
True Crime Podcast Festival
- When: July 18-20
- 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: $189-415
International Women’s Podcast Awards
- When: June 17
- 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
Online Podcast Conferences and 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. Furthermore, 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 to learn more about our services.
