We've all been there: 45 minutes into a guest interview, the big points already covered, but still stretching to reach the hour. It feels natural since that’s how long we scheduled. But your audience isn’t watching the clock. In this week’s feature, we break down the episode length that hurts more than it helps.

Before diving in, I also want to pause to acknowledge some sad news. Last week, we were shocked and saddened by the passing of our friend and indie podcast pioneer Todd Cochrane. I met Todd in May at The Podcast Show, where he joined me for an episode of Podcraft. He had a huge presence, a deep love for this medium, and he spent more than twenty years helping it grow. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

✂️ CREATOR CUTS💡

📝 How long should a podcast be? Here's one length to avoid (Blog)

53% of listeners prefer episodes between 15 and 60 minutes, 78% of the top 200 shows average 40 minutes or longer, and 19% of podcasters keep theirs under ten minutes. But what does this all mean for your average podcast length?

📝 The truth about audio-only podcasts in 2025 (Blog)

Debates over video versus audio in podcasting have been loud this past year, but hard numbers have been scarce. Recently, however, Rob Walch of Libsyn and Tom Webster of Sounds Profitable shared data that challenges much of the narrative.

📺 The 3-part podcast intro structure that sucks listeners in (YouTube)

Colin shows us how to create podcast intros that hook listeners. He breaks down a three-part, under-60-second structure, explains what to include in show vs. episode intros, and demonstrates setting it up using examples from Podcraft.

🎙️ Win $1,600 in podcasting tools (Prize Draw)

Heads up, there’s a giveaway happening this September. Who doesn’t love free gear, especially when it helps your podcast grow? Guest Matching platform talks. co is running a prize draw worth over $1,600 in resources, including a full year’s subscription to Alitu 💪

🎧 Should hyperlocal podcasts target international audiences? (Podcraft)

Can a podcast rooted in one city or neighbourhood really matter to listeners halfway across the world? Or should hyperlocal shows focus purely on the people right on their doorstep?

🕯️ Remembering Todd Cochrane (Podcast)

On this poignant tribute episode of the New Media Show, host Rob Greenlee is joined by Podcast Hall of Famers Adam Curry and Rob Walch, plus Blubrry VP Mike Dell, to reflect on Todd’s journey from Navy service to podcasting pioneer, his impact on the industry, his advocacy for creators, and the lessons he leaves for the future.

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PS - Got a podcasting question you’d love answered in next week’s email? Hit reply and ask away. We’ll pick one to feature!