Podcasting conferences are a place where podcasters from around the world come together to network and learn more about their craft. Whether you’re an expert who’s been in the field for years or you’re yet to record your first episode, all skill levels are welcomed with open arms.

In this article, we discuss the top podcasting conferences to attend in 2020.

✴ Why You Should Attend Podcasting Conferences

Podcasting conferences regularly host panel discussions that cover everything related to podcasts including scriptwriting, technical information, monetization and much more.

These conferences provide a real sense of community. It’s easy to feel isolated if you’re mostly alone on your podcasting journey and lack people around you that understand your passion. Attending a podcasting conference will instantly remove part of this burden. It will allow you to network with like-minded individuals and organize future collaborations with other podcasters.

If you’re an up-and-coming podcast, conferences are a proven method of gaining exposure. Some events will allow you to set up a stand where people can stop by and see what your show is all about. This is a great opportunity to hand out flyers or even sell merchandise. You can also bring your podcast to life by putting on a live version of your show in front of an audience.

Most podcasting conferences also have an exhibition hall. This is where you can buy a range of high-quality podcasting equipment from industry-leading manufacturers. You’ll also have direct access to some great service providers and software developers that are known to offer exclusive discounts at these events.

With so many reasons to get involved if you’re in the industry, here is a list of the top podcasting conferences to attend in 2020.

✴ RAIN Podcast Business Summit – NYC, New York

The RAIN Podcast Business Summit takes place on March 4, 2020, at New World Stages, sponsored by iHeart Radio and Stitcher. The theme for this year is “Podcasting in The Decade of Audio”. It explores everything that is new within the podcast business space. The summit is hosted by James Cridland, founder and editor of Podnews and features talks and panel discussions that cover a broad range of topics – from audio innovation to executive-level marketing. There’s something here for everyone.

✴ Podfest – Orlando, Florida

This year’s Podfest Expo at the Orlando World Center Marriot takes place on March 6-8, 2020. Podfest is an established community of international podcasters who come together each year to learn and grow. You can expect world-class education from leading industry experts in addition to a relaxed social environment that is perfect for networking. Podfest also offers what they call ‘Conference Tracks’ that allow you to customize your daily itinerary based on what you’re most interested in – regardless of your skill level or experience.

✴ Podcast Movement Dallas – Dallas, Texas

Hosted at the Hilton Anatole Hotel from August 5-8, 2020, Podcast Movement Dallas is the world’s largest gathering of podcasters and the longest-running podcasting conference. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, there are over 150 sessions and events that are designed for attending podcasters. These sessions cover a vast array of topics including marketing and monetization. Attendees will also receive a special discount for staying at the Hilton Anatole Hotel during the conference.

✴ Werk It – Los Angeles, California

The annual Werk It podcast festival is a growing community of female and non-binary podcasters. Their 2020 dates are yet to be announced, however, the festival typically takes place later in the year around October. It’s a unique place for up-and-coming international podcasters to learn and grow. To receive updates about this year’s festival, head over to the Werk It website and sign up for their newsletter. You’ll be notified as soon as the official date is announced.

✴ The New Media Summit – San Diego, California

The New Media Summit is a business-focused podcast conference running from March 9-11, 2020. With panels from leading industry experts, it’s the ideal place to learn about business strategy and how to propel your podcast towards success.

Over the three days, you’ll get to network with 40 leading ‘Icons of Influence’ to discover the best methods of increasing your visibility online. The New Media Summit is also a fantastic place to pitch yourself to other successful podcasters who will be looking for new guests to feature on their shows.

✴ FlynnCon2 – San Diego, California

FlynnCon2 takes place between July 16-18, 2020, and is the follow up to a well-received 2019 FlynnCon1 conference. It’s an intimate, family-friendly podcasting conference designed to inspire. Over the course of the weekend, you’ll get to build lasting relationships with likeminded individuals and receive talks from industry experts such as Buzzsprout and Teachable. FlynnCon2 is all about learning, and given its smaller turnout, you’ll get to have many one-on-one conversations with people at all levels.

✴ Chicago Podcast Festival – Chicago, Illinois

The annual Chicago Podcast Festival is held to celebrate podcasts and connect fans from all over the world. It’s a great opportunity for new podcasters to hang out with experts and discuss their craft. You’ll also get the chance to listen to some of your favorite podcasts live.

If you’re looking to gain some exposure, the Chicago Podcast Festival allows you to host your own live show. All you need to do is head to their website when this year’s applications open and follow their submission guidelines. The exact date for the 2020 festival is yet to be announced, however, the event usually takes place around October.

✴ Don’t Miss Out On the Top Podcasting Conferences in 2020

Podcasting conferences are a fantastic opportunity to network, learn, and grow with other likeminded individuals. Regardless of your skill level or experience, you’ll gain invaluable knowledge that will help you to take the next step with your own show. Don’t second-guess it, head out to a podcasting conference near you in 2020. You won’t be disappointed.

Want to attend events with other podcasters from the comfort of your home? Join The Wave’s Discord community.

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Top Podcasting Conferences of 2020