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Hobby Shaming in Podcasting
by Kathy Barron

Podcasting, a burgeoning medium that has exploded in popularity in recent years, has provided a platform for individuals to share their thoughts, stories, and expertise on a wide range of topics. However, within the seemingly boundless world of podcasting, a subtle yet pervasive issue has emerged - hobby shaming. In order to understand hobby shaming in podcasting, I’ll delve into the dynamics of it within the podcasting community, exploring its origins, manifestations, and impact on content creators and listeners alike. By examining the nuances of this phenomenon, we can gain insights into the challenges faced by podcasters and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive podcasting culture.

Podcasting has democratized content creation, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to share their passions and perspectives. However, as the medium has grown, so too has the tendency for certain podcasting topics and styles to be marginalized or dismissed as unworthy pursuits. Hobby shaming in podcasting encompasses the judgment and criticism directed at podcasters based on the content they produce, the niche they explore, or the unconventional nature of their shows.

One prevalent form of hobby shaming is content snobbery, where certain genres or topics are deemed more intellectually or culturally valuable than others. For instance, podcasts delving into highbrow subjects like philosophy or literature might be celebrated, while those focusing on pop culture, gaming, or niche hobbies may face dismissal or mockery.

Another manifestation of hobby shaming comes in the form of gatekeeping, wherein individuals within the podcasting community establish arbitrary criteria for what constitutes a legitimate podcast. This exclusionary behavior often stems from a desire to maintain a perceived standard of quality or relevance, discouraging newcomers, and stifling diversity of content. Not every podcast needs to be a money-making venture. For many people, podcasting is a passion project and their goal is to make a difference in people’s lives. Podcasters producing content outside mainstream topics or those not conforming to popular formats may experience hobby shaming through constant comparison to more commercially successful podcasts. This can create a sense of inadequacy and discourage content creators from exploring their unique perspectives and passions.

To comprehend the roots of hobby shaming in podcasting, it’s essential to recognize the broader societal attitudes that influence these perceptions. The traditional hierarchy of hobbies, where certain activities are valued more than others, finds its reflection in the podcasting landscape. This hierarchy often mirrors societal biases, leading to the marginalization of certain interests in favor of others deemed more socially acceptable or prestigious. Furthermore, the influence of mainstream media and cultural trends plays a significant role in shaping podcasting perceptions. As podcasting gains popularity, the desire for commercial success and recognition may drive creators to conform to established norms, inadvertently perpetuating hobby shaming by marginalizing unconventional or niche content.

Hobby shaming not only affects content creators but also limits the diversity of content available to listeners.

Here are a few ways podcasters are affected:

• It can stifle creativity as content creators may feel compelled to align their podcasts with more mainstream and socially accepted topics. This suppression of creativity not only limits the diversity of content but also inhibits the exploration of unique perspectives and passions.

• Content creators who experience hobby shaming may face mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. The pressure to conform to certain podcasting norms can contribute to burnout and impact the overall well-being of creators who are passionate about their unique, non-mainstream topics.

• Hobby shaming within the podcasting community can strain relationships among creators. When podcasters feel judged or dismissed based on their chosen topics, it creates a divisive atmosphere, hindering collaboration and the exchange of ideas.

Listeners are affected:

• When certain topics are stigmatized, listeners miss out on the opportunity to explore a wide array of perspectives and interests.

• Hobby shaming contributes to an exclusionary listening experience where individuals who do not align with mainstream interests may feel underrepresented or overlooked. This can lead to a sense of alienation among listeners with niche hobbies or unconventional interests.

• The prevalence of hobby shaming may discourage potential podcast listeners from exploring content beyond mainstream topics. This reduction in engagement limits the growth and vibrancy of the podcasting community as a whole.

Addressing hobby shaming in podcasting will help us move toward a more inclusive podcasting culture. Podcasting platforms, networks, and communities should actively promote diversity and inclusivity. Encouraging a wide range of topics, styles, and perspectives fosters a richer podcasting landscape that caters to the diverse interests of listeners. Initiatives aimed at educating the podcasting community about the impact of hobby shaming can help break down stereotypes and foster a more empathetic and understanding environment. Discussions can serve as platforms for open conversations about the value of all podcasting genres.

Highlighting the success stories of podcasts that have defied traditional norms can challenge perceptions and inspire content creators to embrace their unique interests. Recognizing achievement beyond mainstream metrics reinforces the idea that success in podcasting is not limited to a specific formula. Creating support networks within the podcasting community can provide content creators with a sense of belonging and validation. Peer mentorship programs, forums, and collaborative initiatives can help build a supportive ecosystem where creators feel empowered to pursue their passions without fear of judgment. Shifting the focus from traditional success metrics, such as download numbers and commercial partnerships, to the impact and connection with the audience can redefine what constitutes a successful podcast. Emphasizing the value of meaningful engagement and community building encourages content creators to prioritize authenticity over conformity.

Hobby shaming in podcasting represents a challenge that requires collective efforts to overcome. By understanding what it means, acknowledging its impact on both content creators and listeners, and actively working towards a more inclusive podcasting culture, the community can foster an environment where diverse voices and unique perspectives are celebrated. Podcasting has the potential to break free from the confines of traditional hierarchies and embrace the richness of human experiences, one episode at a time.