Canada Is Tuning In: The Rapid Rise of Podcast Listening Nationwide
Canada’s love affair with podcasts is accelerating, and faster than many industry analysts expected. Over the past year, podcast listenership in Canada has surged by nearly 20%, marking one of the strongest growth periods the medium has seen since it first became mainstream. What was once a niche form of entertainment has now cemented itself as a core part of Canadians’ daily routines, shaping commutes, workouts, evenings at home, and even classroom and workplace learning environments.
Several factors are fueling this momentum. First, the sheer diversity of content has exploded. Canadian listeners now have access to more homegrown podcasts than ever before, including everything from investigative journalism and Indigenous storytelling to comedy, finance, wellness, and industry-specific shows. This broad spectrum gives listeners something that feels personal, relevant, and hyper-targeted to their interests. At the same time, major global platforms, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and others, continue to invest in localized experiences, curated recommendations, and improved accessibility features, making it even easier for users to discover new shows.
The rise of smart speakers and in-car connectivity has also played a big role. With more households adopting voice-controlled devices and more vehicles integrating seamless audio streaming, listening has become frictionless. A single voice command can pull up the latest episode, and improved Bluetooth and infotainment systems help turn long drives into meaningful storytelling sessions. This convenience has made podcasts a natural fit for multitasking Canadians who want information and entertainment without needing to stare at a screen.
Younger audiences are driving much of the growth, but older demographics are rapidly catching up. Gen Z and millennials were the earliest adopters, drawn to podcasts’ authenticity, intimacy, and binge-friendly structure, but listenership among adults over 55 has jumped significantly as well. This shift reflects a broader cultural acceptance of audio as a legitimate, trusted source of news, education, and entertainment. It also aligns with the rising popularity of audiobooks, which have seen parallel increases throughout Canada.
For creators and advertisers, this boom opens up an entirely new horizon. Brands increasingly view podcasts as an effective way to reach highly engaged, niche audiences. Meanwhile, Canadian creators are benefiting from grants, production funds, and industry partnerships aimed at showcasing diverse voices from across the country. This infusion of support elevates the quality of Canadian storytelling and helps local shows compete on the international stage.
The takeaway is clear: podcasts in Canada aren’t just growing, they’re thriving. As listening habits continue to evolve and the industry invests in more innovative formats and technology, the trend shows no sign of slowing down. From coast to coast, Canadians are tuning into stories that inform, inspire, and connect them, making audio one of the country’s most dynamic cultural pillars.