How the Golden Globes Podcast Category Will Impact Creators

The podcasting world is abuzz with excitement as the Golden Globes announced the addition of a best podcast of the year category at the 2026 awards ceremony. This move marks a significant step in recognizing the growing influence and impact of podcasts in the entertainment industry.

Comedian Bert Kreischer, host of popular podcasts “Bertcast” and “2 Bears, 1 Cave,” sees this new category as a long-overdue acknowledgment of podcasting as a storytelling medium. He emphasizes that podcasting is not just noise but a craft that deserves recognition.

However, defining the criteria for judging podcasts proves to be a challenge. With a diverse range of formats and voices in the top 25 most popular podcasts list, including comedy, journalism, true crime, politics, culture, and celebrity-driven shows, comparing them becomes a daunting task. The question arises: how do you evaluate a light-hearted comedy podcast against a serious investigative journalism show?

Industry insiders are eager for clarity on how metrics such as downloads, listener retention, content quality, and reach will be weighed in the selection process. The goal is to ensure that the award honors both cultural and creative impact, rather than simply popularity.

There is also concern about potential bias in the nominations, particularly regarding celebrity-driven or politically aligned shows. Podcasters like Kreischer and Joe Santagato emphasize the importance of fairness in the selection process. They stress the need for a diverse range of shows to be recognized, regardless of their political leanings or level of celebrity involvement.

Despite the uncertainties and challenges, most podcasters agree that the recognition from the Golden Globes is long overdue. With podcasts increasingly rivaling traditional media in terms of reach and influence, the inclusion of a best podcast category could mark a significant shift in how podcasts are perceived by mainstream institutions.

As the podcasting landscape continues to evolve, the new category at the Golden Globes offers a unique opportunity to showcase the diversity and impact of this medium. It remains to be seen how the selection process will unfold and what impact it will have on the future of podcasting.