2025 Anthem Awards Finalists: Top Podcasts and Brands Making Global Impact
The International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences has revealed the finalists for the 5th annual Anthem Awards, celebrating the most impactful purpose-driven work in digital media, branded content, and podcasting. Hosted by the Webby Awards, the Anthems honor creators and organizations making meaningful global change since the awards’ inception in 2021.
This year’s finalists showcase a growing trend: audio storytelling as a catalyst for social impact, blending creativity with advocacy to educate, inspire, and spark action across the globe.
Podcasting Takes Center Stage in Purpose-Driven Media
Podcasts have emerged as a major force in this year’s awards. From major media companies to nonprofit organizations, finalists have harnessed the power of storytelling to raise awareness and drive change.
Among the standout nominees are:
Spotify
Paramount Pictures
MTV Entertainment Studios
The Daily Show
Nonprofits recognized include:
UNICEF USA
World Central Kitchen
These selections highlight how mission-led content can combine entertainment and education to make a tangible societal impact.
Leadership Voices: Anthem Awards Recognize Global Change-Makers
Patricia McLoughlin, General Manager of the Anthem Awards, emphasized the spirit behind this year’s selections:
“The 2025 finalists represent hope, compassion, and inclusivity. In our fifth year, we are celebrating the true changemakers that are pushing humanity forward, especially amid current challenges.”
With a judging panel featuring leaders from TikTok, Paramount, the NAACP, Planned Parenthood, and the Gates Foundation, the awards showcase cross-industry collaboration for social good.
Public Participation: Community Voice Awards
The Anthem Awards also empower audiences to vote for their favorite projects.
Anthem Community Voice Awards – decided by public vote
Gold, Silver, Bronze Anthem Awards – selected by expert judges
This combination of public and expert input ensures that the awards reflect both community engagement and industry standards.
Global Scale: 2,000+ Entries from 42 Countries
The 2025 submissions demonstrate the global reach of digital storytelling for social impact:
Over 2,000 entries reviewed
Representing 42 countries
Showcasing diverse approaches, from educational campaigns to advocacy podcasts and branded content initiatives
This underscores the growing influence of digital media as a platform for change, education, and awareness.
Highlighted Podcast Finalists
The podcast category is particularly competitive this year. Notable finalists include:
1912: The Forsyth County Expulsion and Its Aftermath
ABC Audio – Reclaimed: The Lifeblood of Navajo Nation
Crooked Media’s Strict Scrutiny Podcast: Supreme Court Ruling Against Trans Youth
Inside Bipolar Podcast
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
Pfizer’s Science Will Win Podcast – Season 4
Swindled
The Boston Globe’s Spotlight: Snitch City
Uncuffed
Youth Career Readiness: The One-Question Podcast
Other finalists span topics like public health, social justice, environmental advocacy, and personal empowerment, reflecting the versatility and depth of the podcast medium.
Why the Anthem Awards Matter
The Anthem Awards stand out because they:
Celebrate Social Impact: Recognizing creators who use digital media for advocacy and positive change.
Promote Innovation: Rewarding unique storytelling formats in podcasts, video, and branded content.
Encourage Global Collaboration: Engaging creators, nonprofits, and media organizations worldwide.
Empower Public Voice: Allowing communities to support projects that resonate with them.
By merging creativity with purpose-driven goals, the awards highlight how media can be both entertaining and transformative.
Special feature: “Call to Action” speeches from winners will be streamed online, offering insights into the impact and mission behind each winning project.
This event provides inspiration for creators and a blueprint for using media to drive social change.
