The British Podcast Awards 2024 have unveiled the final shortlist for the prestigious Listeners’ Choice Award. Chosen through a public poll, which closed on August 29, six top-tier podcasts have been nominated to compete for this highly coveted accolade. These podcasts represent a wide array of genres and appeal, underscoring the continued growth and diversity of the podcasting industry in the UK.
Listeners’ Choice Shortlist: The Top Six Contenders
The following podcasts have been shortlisted from thousands of public votes, reflecting the tastes and preferences of podcast listeners across the nation.
1. Help I Sexted My Boss
Hosted by William Hanson and Jordan North, Help I Sexted My Boss is a unique podcast where worlds collide. William, a posh etiquette expert, and Jordan, a self-proclaimed expert in all things common, join forces to help listeners navigate the peculiarities of modern life. Their witty banter and contrasting personalities make this podcast a fun, informative, and entertaining listen. Whether it’s about avoiding an awkward faux pas or dealing with daily dilemmas, William and Jordan’s advice is as helpful as it is hilarious.
2. Shged Married Annoyed**
Rosie and Chris Ramsey, a married couple, offer listeners an honest and comical take on life, love, and everything in between in Sh**ged Married Annoyed. With kids and work taking up much of their time, their podcast is their only chance to have uninterrupted conversations. Together, they tackle relatable issues from relationships to parenting, disagreements, and annoying habits. Their humor and candidness resonate with many couples and listeners who enjoy real-life reflections mixed with humor.
3. Sherlock & Co.
Inspired by the timeless tales of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock & Co. brings the adventures of Sherlock Holmes to a new generation of true crime enthusiasts. The audio drama is set up as a podcast by Dr. John Watson, who narrates the thrilling escapades of Holmes and himself. The combination of classic literature with a modern twist has enthralled listeners, making it a standout podcast in the mystery and crime genre.
4. ShxtsNGigs
Best friends James and Fuhad bring unfiltered, unscripted conversations to the table with their weekly podcast, ShxtsNGigs. From tackling light-hearted topics to deep discussions on societal issues, James and Fuhad never shy away from expressing their full, unfiltered opinions. Their raw energy and engaging rapport have won them a dedicated audience. Each episode is packed with laughter, relatable moments, and thought-provoking commentary.
5. Staying Relevant
Reality TV stars Sam and Pete, alumni of The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) and Made in Chelsea, explore the reality of staying relevant in today’s media-driven world in Staying Relevant. From disastrous public appearances to brand campaigns they’d rather forget, the duo shares behind-the-scenes stories of what it truly takes to maintain fame in the ever-evolving world of entertainment. Their frank discussions and humorous anecdotes make this podcast a refreshing look at the world of celebrity.
6. The Socially Distant Sports Bar
Though it’s framed as a sports podcast, The Socially Distant Sports Bar has captured the hearts of listeners far beyond sports fans. Hosted by Elis James, Mike Bubbins, and Steff Garrero, this podcast blends sports commentary with comedy and banter. The trio’s chemistry and entertaining discussions make it a must-listen for anyone who enjoys humor with a touch of sports, even if they’re not die-hard sports enthusiasts.
The Road to the Winner’s Circle
The ultimate winner of the 2024 Listeners’ Choice Award will be revealed at the British Podcast Awards ceremony, set to take place at HERE at Outernet in London on September 26. The British Podcast Awards have been a driving force behind recognizing the best talents in the UK podcasting scene. As podcasting continues to grow in popularity and influence, the Listeners’ Choice Award stands out as a testament to the power of audience engagement and public opinion.
Impact of British Podcast Awards on the Industry
The British Podcast Awards have emerged as one of the most respected accolades in the podcasting world. Over the years, the awards have celebrated diverse content, unique storytelling, and exceptional audio production. The Listeners’ Choice Award, in particular, holds significant importance as it is solely driven by public voting, emphasizing the role of the audience in podcast success.
By honoring a wide variety of genres and creators, the British Podcast Awards reflect the ever-evolving nature of podcasting. From comedy and true crime to relationship advice and celebrity culture, the range of nominees shows how podcasts cater to different tastes and demographics. This year’s shortlist highlights the diversity and creativity in the UK’s podcasting community.
Podcasting’s Increasing Popularity in the UK
Podcasting has become one of the fastest-growing forms of digital media, with millions of listeners tuning in each week. In the UK, podcast consumption has seen a steady rise, with an increasing number of creators producing content across different niches. From established media personalities to newcomers, podcasts provide a platform for voices that might not always be heard on mainstream media.
In recent years, podcasts have also become a popular medium for advertisers and brands looking to engage with targeted audiences. With the rise of streaming services and mobile technology, podcasts offer listeners the flexibility to consume content anytime, anywhere. This has fueled the demand for high-quality podcasts, and awards like the British Podcast Awards have helped raise the standard of content production.
How to Vote for Your Favorite Podcast
While the public voting for the 2024 Listeners’ Choice Award has already closed, fans still have an opportunity to engage with their favorite podcasts by supporting them on social media and tuning in to new episodes. For those who missed the chance to vote, the British Podcast Awards website offers a comprehensive list of nominees and categories, allowing listeners to explore new shows and discover hidden gems in the podcasting world.
Key Takeaways
- The British Podcast Awards 2024 has revealed the six finalists for the Listeners’ Choice Award.
- Help I Sexted My Boss, Sh**ged Married Annoyed, Sherlock & Co., ShxtsNGigs, Staying Relevant, and The Socially Distant Sports Bar are the six shortlisted podcasts.
- The awards ceremony will be held at HERE at Outernet in London on September 26, 2024.
- The Listeners’ Choice Award is driven by public votes, reflecting the most loved podcasts across various genres.
- Podcasting continues to thrive as a medium, offering diverse content to listeners in the UK and beyond.
The Future of Podcasting: A Look Ahead
As podcasting continues to evolve, the future holds immense possibilities for creators and listeners alike. The increasing accessibility of podcast production tools, combined with platforms that support and promote content, makes it easier than ever for new voices to emerge in the industry. The British Podcast Awards play a pivotal role in shaping the future of podcasting by recognizing excellence and innovation.
The impact of podcasts is far-reaching, influencing not only entertainment but also education, activism, and business. As more creators step into the podcasting world, the medium will likely continue to break boundaries, offering fresh perspectives and new narratives.