Podcasting and public service: the cultural role of Spanish regional broadcasters in the digital era
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26441/RC25.1-2026-4319Keywords:
podcast, podcasting, audio, public radio, public service, regional media, platformization, digital ecosystemAbstract
Purpose. Two decades after emerging as a technological innovation, podcasting is progressively consolidation itself as a medium with its own identity within the audio ecosystem. In Spain, regional media contribute to this evolution with their own offerings. The main objective of this study is to analyse the production of native podcasts by the main Spanish regional public broadcasters, to understand their role in the digital transformation of radio and in the renewal of public service functions. Methodology. A content analysis was carried out on the offerings of five regional broadcasters (3Cat, À Punt Mèdia, EITB, CRTVG, and Canal Sur) during the year 2024. The sample includes a total of 121 original podcasts, considering variables such as production, genres, topics, language, distribution, and commercialization. Results and conclusions. The findings show significant differences among operators in production volume, genre diversity, and launch strategies. The conversational macro-genre predominates, with a strong presence of cultural, educational, and social topics, as well as a relevant use of co-official languages in content creation. Distribution is characterized by open access on aggregators, although initiatives for proprietary platforms are also emerging. The study concludes that podcasting is consolidating itself as a strategic tool to strengthen the public service mission, broaden the diversity of voices, and reinforce territorial and cultural ties with audiences. Original contribution. This study represents the first systematic approach to podcasting in Spain’s regional public broadcasters, highlighting its role as a cultural and identity-based expression within the new digital audio ecosystem.
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