Observed Signal · Jul 31, 2026 · Market Signal · Source: Acast · Impact: 3/5
Acast Classics: Interview with Carrie Jade Does Not Exist
In this interview, journalist and co-host of Carrie Jade Does Not Exist, Katherine Denkinson, talks to us about her experience making the podcast, working with Sue Perkins and the legacy the show has garnered since its release.
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Podcast Day 2026: Spotify, Acast Reveal Audio-Video Trends
On International Podcast Day, new reports from Spotify and Acast highlight the growing convergence of audio and video in podcasting. Spotify's Culture Next 2026 report, focusing on Gen Z, reveals a 55% increase in video share among 14-18 year olds in Germany over 18 months, coining the trend 'Eye Pods'. Acast's Podcast Pulse 2026 survey, covering 4,500 fans across 13 markets, shows 88% of listeners also watch podcasts as video, and 63% switch formats mid-episode. Both studies emphasize the importance of social media clips for discovery, with 51% of fans finding new shows via social clips. Additionally, a brand podcast guide advises companies on strategic planning, resource allocation, and long-term commitment, emphasizing relationship-building over short-term metrics.
IAB Podcast Upfront Recap: Creators, Surfaces, Consolidation, Measurement
The 2026 IAB Podcast Upfront highlighted the maturation of the podcast industry, characterized by four key themes: the centrality of creators, the diversification of distribution surfaces, consolidation in buying infrastructure, and measurement challenges. Podcasts now span RSS, YouTube, Spotify video, FAST, VOD, social clips, and live events, with audiences following creators across these formats. Buyers are increasingly able to purchase podcast inventory through consolidated pipes, such as Amazon's DSP aggregating supply from SiriusXM, Spotify, Acast, and iHeart. However, measurement remains hindered by inconsistent definitions across platforms, with YouTube's zero-second view inflating counts by ~1.8x, and difficulty measuring ROI being the top buyer concern. The industry is building momentum towards standardizing metrics like clips, views, plays, and sessions to increase buyer confidence and scale investment.
IAB CreatorFronts 2026: Overcoming Creator Economy Friction
The inaugural 2026 IAB CreatorFronts event, held on September 15, 2026, highlighted the rapid growth of creator advertising in the U.S., projected to reach about $44 billion this year, up from $13.9 billion in 2021. Industry leaders discussed scaling the market to $100 billion by addressing infrastructure gaps. Key challenges identified include inconsistent metrics for 'views', immature reporting capabilities, and varied usage rights in creator-brand agreements. The event underscored the expansion of creator content across CTV, podcasting, gaming, and live events, with sessions from companies like Culture Genesis, Spotter, and dentsu. Trust, credibility, and co-creation were emphasized as crucial for effective partnerships. Legal and compliance issues, including brand safety and AI disclosures, were also addressed. The IAB plans to publish results from its Trusted Creator Brand Deal Initiative survey to shape 2027 priorities.
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