Navigating reality has become an almost constant shock to the system. With the ongoing cost of living crisis, wars, political polarisation, and global environmental issues, life’s stresses are becoming increasingly difficult to escape. With individuals and collectives in a perpetual state of disturbance, peop...

Podcasts are going through somewhat of an identity crisis and shifting from an audio-only format to an increasingly video-led content stream. This hybrid format is fast-turning into the preferred form for many people, creating an even deeper sense of intimacy among viewers.

Natalie Wynn, aka ContraPoints, is a Gen Y YouTuber, political provocateuse, and video-essayist who tackles cancel culture and alt-right with theatrical esthetic, dark humor, and philosophy. Her videos are aimed at politically curious audiences seeking to move beyond partisan echo chambers.

Podcasts are changing the media landscape by providing an open space for creators and audiences to meet on equal terms. As podcasts garner increased trust and loyalty from listeners compared with other types of media, could they be a future space where brands can talk directly to customers?

Research has found that podcasts can have a profound effect on life decisions. Whether it's due to the perceived intimacy of listening via headphones or their ability to liven up mundane everyday tasks, this medium has a persuasive power that may enhance brands' ability to get a message across.