Chapter 1: The Landscape of Podcast Discovery

When considering the world of film, we often think of the abundance of reviews and recommendations available. Each year sees approximately 125 new films, yet there are around 7,000 movie review podcasts alongside countless online critics. This creates a scenario where numerous reviewers compete for a limited number of films. How many insights can you really find about popular titles like Deadpool and Wolverine?

Now, let’s shift our focus to podcasts. The landscape is vast, with roughly 40,000 active podcasts currently available. Notably, over 80% of these are independent productions, lacking the backing of major platforms like Amazon, Spotify, or iHeart, which provide both financial and logistical support.

While exact statistics are elusive, there seem to be only a few thousand podcast recommendation platforms, whether they be podcasts, online articles, or video series. In essence, the imbalance is clear: a multitude of exceptional podcasts exists, yet there aren’t enough reviewers to spotlight them effectively.

As a contributor to podcast reviews and recommendations, I highly endorse several fantastic platforms, including Bingeworthy, BlkPodNews, Great Pods, Into The Podverse, Podstack, Podcast The Newsletter, and, of course, Feed The Queue.

These platforms provide reliable recommendations that you can trust. What I particularly appreciate is their commitment to highlighting independent podcasts that often get overshadowed in the chaotic world of podcast discoverability.

Chapter 2: Spotlight on Feed The Queue

Feed The Queue is a podcast recommendation series that has recently commenced its fourth season. Produced by Tink Media—one of the leading companies in podcast marketing—this show is helmed by Lauren Passell, a highly esteemed figure in the podcasting community.

Describing itself as “the ultimate podcast discovery podcast,” Feed The Queue aims to enhance your listening experience by introducing you to its favorite shows. Think of it as a delectable charcuterie board filled with intriguing audio flavors.

While the reference to a charcuterie board might make you crave a snack, the quality of this podcast is anything but cheesy. Each episode features a podcast that quickly becomes a must-listen after tuning into Feed The Queue. It functions similarly to Consumer Reports or Wirecutter for podcasts.

Personally, I have appreciated every podcast recommended by the show. Standout mentions include Beef, Digital Folklore, Rumble Strip, Skyline Drive, and The Nocturnists—particularly, Beef with Bridget Todd, which resonated with me.

One of the standout episodes aired on November 17, 2023, featuring the exceptional podcast 6 Degrees Of Cats by Amanda B. During this episode, host Andreea converses with Amanda about her background, her unique sound design, and how she weaves history, culture, and science into her feline-focused podcast. Their restraint on cat puns while still being entertaining was a highlight.

Notably, 6 Degrees Of Cats received the Ear Worthy Award for Best Pet Podcast in July 2024.

As Feed The Queue embarks on its fourth season, it has evolved in several ways, which is a positive development. Stagnation is rarely beneficial in the podcasting realm, except perhaps for shows like PodQuiz, which thrives on its consistent format.

The Season 4 premiere episode aired on September 10th, featuring distinctive intro music by Aakshi Sinha. The co-hosts for this episode, Devin Andrade and Andreea Coscai, introduced a fresh element by each posing three questions: How did you discover your love of audio? What is one of your favorite podcasts? If you had a budget of one million dollars, what podcast would you create?

This approach not only invites personal insights from the co-hosts but also aligns perfectly with the overarching theme of podcast discovery.

Tink Media plans to feature various co-hosts, ensuring that the show maintains its high standards, thanks to talented individuals like Wil Williams.

The challenge of discovering podcasts is akin to battling a persistent cold—both podcasters and listeners recognize the abundance of outstanding podcasts waiting to be found. However, finding them can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Until a more organized and collaborative approach to podcast discoverability is established, shows like Feed The Queue are invaluable for listeners eager to uncover their next favorite.

In conclusion, as a passionate advocate for independent podcasts, I commend Tink Media for its dedication to those who have pioneered the podcasting landscape and remain its core—independent creators.

Whether it’s breakfast or lunch when you read this, take a moment to tune into Feed The Queue and savor an exceptional podcast. I recommend Conspiracy, She Wrote, which will unravel the mystery of where in Ohio those immigrants are allegedly consuming all the dogs and cats. Run, Scruffy, run!