One of the most defining decisions in podcast creation is choosing the topic of the show. The right topic determines not only the direction of the content, but also how you can reach and retain your listeners. A well-chosen topic becomes the backbone of a series, guides your content marketing strategy and determines how you position yourself as a podcaster.
Watching trends: where to draw ideas for your podcast topic?
1. Popular shows and genres
The Spotify Podcast Charts and other rankings clearly show in 2025 too which topics attract listeners the most.
In Hungary, in the first quarter of the year:
- True crime – crime stories remain popular, and many new shows have appeared in this category.
- The popularity of podcasts for children is steadily growing compared to previous years.
- Content related to mental health attracted 22% more listeners in the first quarter of 2024 than in 2023, so interest remains strong in 2025 as well.
Global trends:
- Society and culture
- Mental health and well-being
- Live shows and events
This data can give you a reference point, especially if you are only just shaping your idea or considering podcast studio rental.
2. Analysing online searches
Google Trends and AnswerThePublic are great tools for mapping out which topics people are most interested in during a given period. In 2024 in Hungary, for example, the following searches were particularly popular: „life hacks for kids”, „life hacks for saving money”, and „healthy lifestyle tips for beginners”. From these directions you can easily shape individual podcast episodes, or even build an entire series around them.
3. Social media trends
The TikTok Creative Center or the Instagram Explore page can help you map out popular topics around which you can build your shows. Following trending hashtags, posts and creators can help you discover new topics and keep your podcast fresh and current.
In 2024 the following hashtags dominate content that can also be linked to podcasts:
- #neurodiverse: interest in content related to learning difficulties is growing
- #slowliving and #minimalism: the topic of conscious living is experiencing a renaissance
- #digitaldetox and #selfawareness: popular mainly among the Gen Z target group
Involving the target group
Involving listeners is crucial to the success of podcast creation. Spotify for Podcasters and similar platforms make it possible for the audience to actively participate in shaping the show, for example through voting or feedback.
Shows that involve their audience in shaping the content in some form show on average 37% higher listener activity, and are shared on social platforms more than 40% more often.
How to position your podcast?
Channel building and marketing
To publish your podcast show you will need a podcast hosting service that generates an RSS feed. With this you can already appear on platforms such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts. In addition, a social media presence, blog posts and sharing the show in relevant online communities are essential.
Unique style and authenticity
Be authentic, have your own voice, and dare to ask questions. If you create interview-based podcasts, do not be afraid to use a more personal tone. The personality of the podcaster is often at least as important as the topic itself. If you do not want to set out alone, it is worth involving a host. An experienced host can help make the show dynamic and well directed.
The Budapest Podcast Studio team can help with podcast studio rental, content production or even developing the entire show concept. Launch your own show now and join the world of podcasts!
