Creating deeper connections through voices that resonate
Audio has shifted from a niche format to a mainstream powerhouse for brand loyalty. In 2022, podcasts, live audio events, and on-demand soundbites are giving marketers a rare advantage — uninterrupted attention. With earbuds in and screens elsewhere, listeners commit to audio in ways other mediums can’t match. This creates space for deeper relationships, whether you’re offering insight, storytelling, or community connection.

June 2022’s surge in searches for “podcast marketing,” “Twitter Spaces,” and “LinkedIn Audio Events” reflected brands leaning into voice-driven strategies. The winners were those that treated audio not as an experiment, but as a fully integrated pillar of their content ecosystem.
B2B vs. B2C Perspectives
For B2B marketers, audio offers a direct line to decision-makers — without fighting for screen time. Industry podcasts, expert panel discussions, and recorded Q&A sessions position the brand as a trusted advisor. LinkedIn Audio Events in particular became a professional networking magnet in mid-2022, allowing thought leaders to reach targeted audiences in real time.
B2C brands often leverage audio’s intimacy for lifestyle storytelling, behind-the-scenes content, or serialized entertainment. From wellness brands offering guided meditations to retailers producing customer story series, branded podcasts and audio snippets invite audiences into a more personal connection with the brand.
Factics
What the data says:
• Podcast listeners are 45% more likely to follow a brand on social media after hearing about it (Edison Research).
• Listeners stay tuned for an average of 80% of a podcast episode (Podcast Insights).
• Audio content increases brand recall by up to 24% (Neuro-Insight).
• Branded podcasts can lift purchase intent by as much as 14% (BBC Global News).
How to apply it:
• Build episodic series to keep audiences coming back.
• Integrate calls-to-action naturally within the flow of conversation.
• Repurpose audio into transcripts, blog summaries, and shareable quotes.
• Segment episodes by topic to maximize relevance.
• Embed audio players into blogs to boost on-page engagement.
Platform Playbook
• Spotify: Global reach with discovery-friendly algorithms.
• Apple Podcasts: Loyal listener base and strong search capabilities.
• LinkedIn Audio Events: Live professional engagement with networking potential.
• Twitter Spaces: Real-time discussion layered with social amplification.
• Clubhouse: Smaller but highly engaged niche communities.
Best Practice Spotlight
HubSpot’s The Growth Show demonstrates how consistent, high-quality audio storytelling can become a long-term loyalty engine. By balancing expert interviews with practical tips, the show positions HubSpot as both an educator and an ally to its audience — ensuring listeners return week after week.
Hypotheticals Imagined
Scenario 1 – Industry Authority Series
Background: A cybersecurity firm wants to increase inbound leads.
Execution: Launch a weekly podcast interviewing industry leaders, sharing threat updates, and offering practical security tips.
Expected Outcome: Greater authority positioning and a steady flow of executive-level inquiries.
Potential Pitfalls: Overloading episodes with jargon that alienates non-expert listeners.
Scenario 2 – Lifestyle Brand Storytelling
Background: An outdoor gear company wants to connect emotionally with customers.
Execution: Produce a serialized podcast following real customer adventures using the brand’s products.
Expected Outcome: Stronger emotional connection and higher repeat purchase intent.
Potential Pitfalls: Production delays causing loss of listener momentum.
Scenario 3 – Local Business Community Building
Background: A regional coffee roaster wants to expand community visibility.
Execution: Start a bi-weekly audio series highlighting local entrepreneurs and events, distributed via Spotify and embedded on their website.
Expected Outcome: Increased local awareness and collaboration opportunities.
Potential Pitfalls: Inconsistent promotion limiting audience growth.
References
Edison Research. (2022). The Infinite Dial 2022.
National Public Media. (2022). The Spoken Word Audio Report.
Podcast Insights. (2022). Podcast Listener Statistics.
Engadget. (2022). Clubhouse Replay Feature.
Listnr. (2022). 10 Ways to Grow Your Podcast Engagement in 2022.
Sprout Social. (2022). Twitter Spaces Features & Tips.
Riverside.fm. (2022). Podcast Promotion Strategies.
Sweet Fish Media. (2022). Podcast Marketing Best Practices.
Podhax. (2022). State of Branded Podcasts in 2022 by CoHost.
Spotify for Creators. (2022). Podcast Branding.
Grod Media. (2022). 2022 Podcast Outlook.
Backstage. (2022). How to Start a Branded Podcast.
Inside Audio Marketing. (2022). iHeart Plans to Triple Its Branded Podcast Output in 2022.
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