Podfest 2026 Blubrry Recap – PCI 469

🎙️ Podfest 2026 Recap: Creators, Community & What’s Next

In this special episode of Podcast Insider, Mike Dell, Dave Clements, and MacKenzie Bennett are joined by Cyndee Harrison and Rachael Amato from Synaptic to recap Podfest 2026 — and the conversations that stood out most.

From a packed booth and plenty of “pre-podcasters” (people planning their very first show) to meaningful reconnects with longtime customers, the team shares why Podfest continues to be one of the most creator-focused events of the year.

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What We’re Hearing From Creators

• AI has shifted from fear to usefulness: More creators are asking how AI can help with planning, editing, and promotion — without losing the human connection that makes podcasts work.

• Video podcasting is here (and the debate is tired): Whether creators are video-first or audio-first, the goal is the same: reach people where they listen/watch. Blubrry’s focused on supporting both.

• Monetization is bigger than sponsors: More sessions and conversations centered on using a podcast to support a business funnel — like books, coaching, courses, and community building.

• Podcast-to-book momentum is growing: The team noticed more creators turning transcripts and story-based content into tangible, published books.

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Honoring Todd Cochrane & Podcasting’s Legacy

Blubrry was proud to sponsor the Podcast Hall of Fame ceremony, which included a meaningful moment honoring our late CEO, Todd Cochrane. The team reflects on the respect Podfest showed for podcasting pioneers — and why building the future still means honoring the legacy.

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🔗 Links & Resources

• Vid2Pod

• Podcast Hall of Fame ceremony video: watch here

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Blubrry hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one tech checkup with Mike ([email protected])