Professor Paul Levinson

slane14@fordham.edu

Digital Media and Public Responsibility

Fordham University

April 22, 2025

The Role of Podcasts in Elections: A Historical Overview and Campaign Strategy

In recent years, podcasts have become a central platform for content consumption, shaping both entertainment and political landscapes. The advent of podcasts as a main stream medium has opened new avenues for political campaigns to engage with voters. The history of podcasts, their rise in popularity, and the strategic use of these mediums in elections present an intriguing intersection of media and politics. By understanding the evolution of podcasts, one can better understand their impact on modern campaigns

The Origin of Podcasts: From Concept to Creation

The term “podcast” traces back to the early 2000s. While many claim, various forms of podcasting existed in some capacity before this time, the key players in the invention of podcasts are Adam Curry and Dave Winer (Breitman, 2023). In 2001, Curry, a former MTV video jockey, and Winer, a software developer, came together with a groundbreaking idea: they wanted to download online radio broadcasts onto Apple’s iPod (Breitman, 2023). This new and revolutionary device allowed users to carry their music and audio files on the go. This collaboration led to the creation of iPodder, a program that enabled users to download and transfer audio files to an iPod (Breitman, 2023). By using RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds—initially designed for text-based content—Curry and Winer adapted the technology for audio (Breitman, 2023). This program allowed listeners to subscribe to audio content and receive updates automatically, which was a novel concept at the time. The combination of RSS technology, the growing popularity of the iPod, and Curry’s iPodder software set the stage for podcasting. The name “podcast” itself derives from a combination of “iPod” and “broadcast,” reflecting its original connection to the iPod (Breitman,2023).

2. The Early Years: Growth and Initial Challenges

Although the technology was there, podcasting didn’t take off immediately. For many people,

downloading audio content and listening to it on-demand was new. The year 2006 was a pivotal moment for podcasts, as it marked both a shift in technology and a surge in interest. In 2006, Apple CEO Steve Jobs demonstrated how to record a podcast using the Garage Band software during his keynote speech (Chafroud, 2020). This demonstration spurred a broader interest in podcasts and put them in the public eye. By this time, podcasting was becoming an increasingly popular way to consume content, but it was still primarily a niche activity. The same year, comedian Ricky Gervais set a Guinness World Record for the most downloaded podcast in its first month, with over a quarter of a million downloads (Breitman,2023). This record helped demonstrate the potential of podcasts as a significant form of media consumption. While true crime podcasts and comedy shows were popular in the early years, podcasting was still primarily seen as an alternative to traditional media rather than a main stream format (Breitman, 2023).

3. The Rise of Podcasts: Narrative and True-Crime Influence (2014 and Beyond)

Podcasting reached a new level of mainstream recognition around 2014, a period marked by the rise of narrative podcasts, especially true-crime genres (Breitman, 2023). This period marked a significant shift in podcast content, as podcasts’ production value and storytelling quality increased dramatically. The 2014 release of Serial, a true-crime podcast investigating a 1999 murder case, helped spark a new wave of interest in podcasts (Breitman, 2023). The podcast’s success highlighted the medium’s potential for deeply engaging storytelling, far beyond the boundaries of traditional radio. As more listeners tuned in, higher production values followed, making podcasts more polished and professional (Breitman, 2023). The rise of platforms like Spotify, which began offering podcast subscriptions, also contributed to this growth, making podcasts even more accessible. The success of narrative podcasts not only led to a broader audience for podcasting but also contributed to an increase in sponsorships, advertising, and content creation across genres (Breitman, 2023). By 2014, podcasting had evolved from a niche hobby into a legitimate and widely recognized form of media.

4. Common Campaign Methods and Strategies Using Podcasts

With the exponential growth of podcasts and their increasing role in shaping public discourse, political campaigns began to take notice. As social media platforms and data analytics revolutionized campaign strategies, podcasts became another essential tool for reaching potential voters. Social Media and Microtargeting in Political Campaigns Social media’s influence on elections is undeniable. Campaigns now rely heavily on algorithms, big data, and microtargeting to reach voters with tailored content. Microtargeting involves using data collected from users’ online behavior—such as browsing habits and social media activity—to target specific individuals with customized ads (Maryville University, 2022).This use of data allows campaigns to reach voters with messages that resonate with their particular interests, ideologies, and concerns. Microtargeting is a form of digital advertising that increases voter engagement and mobilization by delivering relevant, personalized content(Maryville University, 2022).Podcasts fit seamlessly into this ecosystem, offering a long-form content platform for political campaigns to distribute tailored messages. By partnering with popular podcasts or launching their own, candidates can directly engage listeners who may be particularly interested in their political stance or policy proposals. For example, a popular candidate among young voters might focus on podcasts that discuss social justice or climate change, topics important to that demographic. Political campaigns have increasingly turned to podcasts as a direct channel to communicate with voters, bypassing traditional media outlets. This method allows candidates to engage with audiences more intimately and personally, offering a level of authenticity and accessibility that can be harder to achieve through other platforms. Podcasts allow candidates to share longer, more detailed messages and discuss policy positions without the filter of traditional media. Unlike TV commercials or sound bites, podcasts allow for in-depth conversations, interviews, and storytelling, which can humanize candidates and allow them to express their views more comprehensively. The first President of the United States to use an audio podcast as a form of communication was George W. Bush (Breitman, 2023). In 2005, Bush had his weekly address delivered in the form of a podcast (Breitman, 2023). One of the first major presidential candidates to recognize the potential of podcasts as a campaign strategy was Barack Obama in2008 (Crooked Media 2008). During his campaign, Obama appeared on the “Pod Save America” podcast, a show created by former Obama staffers (Crooked Media, 2008). This appearance marked a significant shift in how political candidates utilized new media to reach voters, particularly younger, tech-savvy audiences. Obama’s embrace of podcasts and his broader strategy of engaging with social media and digital platforms demonstrated his campaign’s innovative use of emerging technologies to connect with the electorate. In addition to direct voter engagement, podcasts have become a tool for fundraising. Political candidates and PACs (Political Action Committees) can use podcasts as a platform to request donations, sometimes in a more conversational and informal manner than traditional fundraising calls (News Media Alliance, 2023). Some podcasts even feature political commentary or host interviews with politicians, offering organic opportunities for candidates to ask for financial support from listeners who resonate with their message. Comparing Joe Rogan’s Podcast with JD Vance and Charlamagne That God’s Interview with Kamala Harris Podcasts have become a dominant medium for political discourse, offering listeners access to in-depth conversations that are often more personal and nuanced than traditional political speeches or news segments. Two such podcasts, Joe Rogan’s interview with JD Vance(released on October 31st) and Charlamagne Tha God’s interview with Vice President Kamala Harris (released on October 29th), offer compelling glimpses into the personal and political ideologies of their respective guests. Both interviews address issues such as family, politics, identity, and social policies, though they do so in starkly different ways. Communication Style and Approach. One of the most striking differences between the two podcast episodes is the communication style of JD Vance and Kamala Harris. JD Vance’s conversation with Joe Rogan is casual, personal, and conversational. Vance, a Republican politician and author, comes across as human and relatable (Joe Rogan Experience). His discussion with Rogan touches on his personal life, his experiences with family, and his reflections on current societal issues (Joe Rogan Experience). Vance’s anecdotes provide listeners with a sense of his character, making him more accessible and, in many ways, difficult to dislike (Joe Rogan Experience). His discussion of family, fatherhood, and his experiences with social issues paints a picture of a man who deeply cares about his community and country, beyond his political affiliations (Joe Rogan Experience).In contrast, Kamala Harris’ conversation with Charlamagne That God feels more structured and rehearsed. While she also shares anecdotes, the tone is more political. Harris repeatedly shifts to her prepared talking points, addressing issues such as racial inequality, her policies for people of color, and the accomplishments of the Biden administration (Breakfast Club). Though she speaks on topics of social importance, such as Black health, Black homeownership, and education, her answers often feel more like rehearsed soundbites than heartfelt reflections. Harris’ tendency to deflect or reframe questions is evident when she is asked tough or uncomfortable questions, especially about her position on Trump and his followers. While Harris does occasionally engage with the conversation, she seems more concerned with presenting her political image rather than providing a deep, personal insight(Breakfast Club).Vance’s method of communication to the public through the Joe Rogan Experience, along with other podcasts, provides another perspective that the news and more formal interviews do not show (Joe Rogan Experience). This more casual approach allows political figures to present their views in a long-form, unfiltered format. Podcasts give audiences the opportunity to hear extended discussions on complex issues, fostering a sense of connection and authenticity that traditional news outlets struggle to achieve. By utilizing this medium effectively, figures like Vance and Trump have managed to engage younger demographics, particularly young men, by addressing topics in an approachable and unscripted manner.

Focus on Politics vs. Personal Identity

While both Vance and Harris discuss politics, the way they approach it differs significantly. Vance’s discussion with Rogan goes beyond politics and touches on the personal. Vance opens up about his own experiences, providing anecdotes about his childhood, his upbringing, and his views on the changing cultural landscape (Joe Rogan Experience). For example, his thoughts on issues such as puberty blockers and the transgender debate are framed not through abstract political theories but through personal stories and his own fatherly concerns(Joe Rogan Experience). He questions cultural trends, particularly the role of upper-middle-class white progressives in shaping societal norms, and challenges what he perceives as the brainwashing of children regarding gender identity (Joe Rogan Experience). By doing so, Vance humanizes his stance on these contentious issues, being more relatable to listeners who may not necessarily agree with his political views.

Harris, on the other hand, is far more politically oriented. She discusses policies and initiatives, often citing her work in the Senate and as Vice President, but rarely delves into personal anecdotes or experiences (Breakfast Club). While she speaks passionately about racial and economic inequality, her responses to questions often feel more like political talking points than personal reflections (Breakfast Club). For instance, when asked about her position on Trump, she avoids answering directly and instead focuses on the negativity surrounding him, using the conversation to promote her own stance (Breakfast Club). Her discussion of Black issues often lacks specificity, focusing on generalities like “we need to do more for Black communities” without providing concrete details on how her policies would address the concerns of Black Americans (Breakfast Club). This is in stark contrast to Vance, who gives specific examples and real-world experiences to back his views. Engagement with Social Issues Vance’s conversation with Rogan includes a critique of current cultural trends, particularly the issue of transgender rights and the involvement of children in gender transition processes. Vance questions the efficacy and morality of puberty blockers, arguing that they are often promoted as reversible, but the science increasingly contradicts this claim (Joe Rogan Experience). He positions himself as a protector of children and families, using anecdotes to underscore his position. He also critiques the environmental movement and the corporate interests behind it, arguing that celebrities and corporations who speak out against pollution often profit from the very industries they criticize (Joe Rogan Experience). For Vance, these issues are tied to his broader concerns about the future of the country, and his approach is deeply rooted in conservative values, particularly those related to family, gender, and the environment (Joe Rogan Experience).

Charlamagne That God would ask Harris questions about her plans for the future based on her past work and she would tell the viewers they could “look it up,” (Breakfast Club). However, for viewers to leave the podcast, open up a new search tab, and look up facts about Harris is not ideal. Most consumers of the podcast will not take the time to do so, and those who do leave the podcast are unlikely to return. This concept correlates directly to social media algorithms. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok base their algorithm for creators on the engagement with their content. If viewers are leaving their content to open a new tab, the content will not perform as well (TikTok). Content that keeps the consumer engaged and, on the platform, will have a higher chance of reaching a wider audience (YouTube). In terms of the performance of the two interviews, Charlamagne That God’s interview with Kamala Harris has 587,000 views while Joe Rogan’s podcast episode has 20 million views (YouTube). Based on the statistics, the Joe Rogan episode with JD Vance had higher potential to reach viewers who were independent and sway them to vote more conservatively. The interviews with JD Vance on Joe Rogan’s podcast and Kamala Harris on Charlamagne That God’s podcast offer contrasting approaches to discussing politics, social issues, and personal identity (Breakfast Club). Vance presents himself as a relatable figure, grounding his political views in personal experience and engaging deeply with controversial social issues (Joe Rogan Experience). Harris, on the other hand, maintains a more polished and strategic approach, focusing on her political accomplishments and policy proposals without offering as much personal insight or emotional connection (Breakfast Club).Ultimately, Donald Trump and JD Vance’s style of podcasting impacted the results of the2024 election. By engaging in lengthy, candid interviews with popular podcasters, they tapped into platforms that resonate deeply with the younger demographic. These appearances allowed Trump and Vance to discuss topics ranging from politics to personal anecdotes, fostering a sense of relatability and authenticity. This strategic media outreach contributed to a notable shift among young voters towards conservative candidates, as evidenced by increased approval ratings within this party. The success of this approach underscores the growing influence of alternative media in shaping political landscapes and highlights the importance of meeting voters where they are most engaged. Podcasting, Politics, and Public Perception: The Case of Alex Cooper and Election Influence As traditional media outlets lose their grip on the public’s attention, podcasts have surged to the forefront of digital communication. With their conversational tone, flexible formats, and ability to directly reach millions, podcasts have become not only sources of entertainment but powerful tools in shaping public opinion—especially during election seasons. The political potential of this platform became particularly evident in 2024, when Call Her Daddy host Alex Cooper announced an interview with Vice President Kamala Harris (YouTube, 2024). While the move marked a significant milestone in Cooper’s career, it also sparked controversy, backlash, and broader conversations about political bias, media credibility, and the role of censorship on digital platforms. Alex Cooper’s Political Pivot and Its Consequences Known primarily for her candid conversations on relationships and culture, Alex Cooper built Call Her Daddy as a space distinct from politics—a “safe space” for listeners to decompress rather than debate (Cooper, 2024). Therefore, her decision to host Kamala Harris marked a radical departure from her brand. While she explained the opportunity was too important to pass up, the backlash that followed suggests that diving into politics is never simple for a creator known for entertainment rather than political commentary (Cooper, 2024).Cooper’s initial public statement attempted to pre-empt criticism. She emphasized her openness to interviewing Donald Trump as well, and claimed that his team had not responded to her invitation to come on the show (Cooper, 2024). This allowed her to frame the Harris interview as nonpartisan. However, later at a Forbes conference, Cooper contradicted this narrative by admitting that it was actually Trump’s team who had reached out, and that she declined the offer (Forbes, 2024). This revelation quickly sparked accusations of dishonesty from fans and critics. The contradiction undermined Cooper’s credibility—especially damaging since she expressed a desire to be taken more seriously as a professional interviewer. In a digital media landscape where trust is paramount, transparency is essential, Cooper’s conflicting narratives not only cast doubt on her motives but also raised questions about the ethics of selective platforming. If she was willing to lie to her audience about who she considered for her show, it begs a larger question: how can audiences trust political information shared by entertainment influencers? In the age of podcasts, where traditional gatekeeping mechanisms like journalistic standards are often absent, credibility becomes both fragile and crucial. Viewership, Influence, and the Reach of Political Podcasts Another major aspect of the Alex Cooper and Kamala Harris interview is its limited reach compared to political appearances on other podcasts. Cooper posted only an eight-minute clip of the interview on YouTube, which has received close to a million views (YouTube, 2024). While impressive for a first-time political episode, this number is low in comparison to The Joe Rogan Experience, which regularly garners tens of millions of views (YouTube, 2024). For instance, the episode featuring J.D. Vance reached 20 million views, vastly outpacing Cooper’s numbers(YouTube, 2024).The gap in viewership is more than a popularity contest; it has real implications for political influence. Politicians aiming to reach undecided voters or expand their base are likely to seek platforms that ensure greater visibility (Shearer, 2023). Rogan’s wide audience includes many centrists and independents—groups that are often key to swinging elections (Viewstats,2025). In contrast, Cooper’s audience lends itself to consist of women who would already be voting for Harris (View stats, 2025).Furthermore, the decision not to upload the full Harris interview may have hindered its reach. Long-form content allows for nuanced discussion and gives politicians space to fully explain their positions (Shearer, 2023). Short clips, while potentially more viral, may lack the depth and authenticity that podcasting uniquely provides (Trammel, 2025). By limiting the content to a brief segment, Cooper may have inadvertently undercut her own influence in the political conversation (Trammel, 2025). Especially considering Cooper uploads the full, hour-long, interviews with her other guests (YouTube, 2025).Censorship, Misinformation, and the Nelk Boys Controversy Any discussion about podcasting and politics would be incomplete without addressing the issue of censorship. One of the most striking cases in recent years involves the Nelk Boys’ Full Send Podcast, which frequently features high-profile guests including former President Donald Trump (You Tube, 2025). In 2022, one of their episodes, featuring Trump was removed by YouTube just hours after release (YouTube, 2022). Despite racking up 12 million views in just half a day, the episode was taken down for violating YouTube’s policy on election misinformation (YouTube, 2022).The quote that triggered the removal was Trump’s assertion that the U.S. was being run by “incompetent people who… got there through a fraudulent election” (YouTube, 2022).YouTube defended its action by citing its election integrity policy, which prohibits content that falsely claims widespread fraud altered the outcome of the 2020 election (YouTube, 2022). The platform also noted that such content is only permitted if presented with adequate “educational, documentary, scientific, or artistic context,” which the episode allegedly lacked (YouTube 2022).This incident underscores the challenges of content moderation in the digital age. While platforms like YouTube have a responsibility to curb misinformation, especially when it could undermine democratic processes, their decisions also spark concerns about free speech and political bias (YouTube, 2023). Critics argue that censorship can alienate viewers and feed into conspiracy theories about tech companies silencing conservative voices. On the other hand, leaving misinformation unchecked can contribute to the erosion of public trust in institutions. Podcasts thrive on candid conversations and controversial takes, but when platforms step in to moderate content, the line between protection and suppression becomes blurry (Shearer,2023). The Nelk Boys’ experience serves as a high-profile example of how political content—even on entertainment-based platforms—can become a flashpoint in debates over media control and public discourse.

Conclusion: Podcasting as a Political Necessity From Alex Cooper’s political pivot and credibility crisis to the Nelk Boys’ clash with YouTube, it is clear that podcasting is no longer a fringe medium—it is central to how political narratives are created, shared, and contested (Shearer, 2023). Politicians can no longer afford to ignore podcasts as part of their outreach strategies (Shearer, 2023). These platforms offer direct access to potential voters in an unfiltered, long-form setting—something increasingly rare into day’s soundbite-driven news cycle (Shearer, 2023).However, with this power comes responsibility. Podcasters who venture into political territory must be transparent, consistent, and prepared for scrutiny. Missteps, such as Cooper’s conflicting statements, can damage both personal reputations and public trust (Forbes, 2024).Meanwhile, platforms must navigate the difficult task of moderating content without stifling legitimate political discourse. In all, podcasting is a vital force in contemporary political life. It shapes public opinion, influences voter behavior, and creates new opportunities for engagement outside traditional media. As technology continues to evolve, podcasting will likely remain a cornerstone of digital political strategy. The challenge now is to ensure that it enhances democratic participation rather than distorting it.

Works Cited

Breakfast Club Power 105.1 FM. “We the People Town Hall with Kamala Harris & CharlamagneTha God.” YouTube, 15 Oct. 2024, www.youtube.com/watch?v=7L4sts7I3xI.

Breitman, Kendall. “Podcasts: The History of Podcasts & When They Were Invented.” Riverside.fm, 28 Dec. 2023, riverside.fm/blog/podcasts#anchor4.“

Call Her Daddy – Viewstats.” Viewstats, 2025,www.viewstats.com/@callherdaddy/channelytics. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Cooper, Alex. “Call Her Daddy.” Youtube, 2025,youtu.be/_KCRsjPCiCI?si=Gg7iF4ckMtWqaA_F. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Chafroud, Eya. “Podcast Inc – A Brief History of Podcasts.” Www.podcastinc.io, Nov. 2020,www.podcastinc.io/post/a-brief-history-of-podcasts. Joe Rogan Experience. “Joe Rogan Experience #2221 – JD Vance.” YouTube, 31 Oct.2024, www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRyyTAs1XY8. Maryville University. “Social Media Influence on Elections.” Maryville Online, Maryville University, 3 Jan. 2022, online.maryville.edu/blog/social-media-influence-on-elections/.Murray, Conor. “Kamala Harris’ “Call Her Daddy” Appearance Divides Podcast Host Alex Cooper’s Listeners.” Forbes, 9 Oct. 2024, www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2024/10/07/kamala-harris-call-her-daddy-appearance-divides-podcast-host-alex-coopers-listeners/.News Media Alliance. “PAC | News/Media Alliance.” News/Media Alliance, 2 June 2023, www.newsmediaalliance.org/advocacy/pac/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2025.

“Pod Save America Archives.” Crooked Media, 2008,crooked.com/podcast-series/pod-save-america/. “PowerfulJRE – Viewstats.” Viewstats, 2025, www.viewstats.com/@joerogan/channelytics. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.Shearer, Elisa, et al. “Podcasts as a Source of News and Information.” Pew Research Center’s Journalism Project, 18 Apr. 2023,www.pewresearch.org/journalism/2023/04/18/podcasts-as-a-source-of-news-and-information/.Trammell, Alexis. “7 Reasons Why Long-Form Content Drives More Traffic | Stratabeat.”Stratabeat, 6 Mar. 2025, stratabeat.com/long-form-content/
(PDF) The Role of Podcasts in Elections. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/392101926_The_Role_of_Podcasts_in_Elections [accessed Jun 06 2025].