Signal Awards 2025 Finalists Announced – Full List, Trends & How to Vote
The Signal Awards 2025 finalists have been revealed, and the global podcasting community is buzzing with excitement. Known as the awards that “celebrate the podcasts that define culture,” the Signal Awards continue to set the gold standard for excellence in audio storytelling.
This year marks the fourth annual Signal Awards, and the competition has never been more intense. With a 30% increase in submissions compared to last year, it’s clear that podcasting is no longer just a niche medium — it’s a cultural force.
Founded to spotlight the most innovative and impactful voices in podcasting, the Signal Awards recognize creators across genres, from independent podcasters to global media giants.
Mission: To elevate storytelling that shapes conversations and reflects diverse cultures.
Scope: From comedy and true crime to investigative journalism, business, and politics.
Audience: Creators, fans, and industry professionals looking for the best in audio.
🏆 2025 Signal Awards: Key Highlights
📈 Record-Breaking Growth
30% rise in submissions from 2024
10 new award categories added to recognize niche creators
Global participation from independent voices and top studios
🎙️ Big-Name Finalists
This year’s lineup reads like a who’s who of media and entertainment. Among the standout finalists:
Michelle Obama – IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson
Jason & Travis Kelce – NFL stars turned podcasters
Jon Stewart – The Weekly Show
Bowen Yang & Matt Rogers – Las Culturistas
Katie Couric – Veteran journalist and podcast host
Keke Palmer, Mel Robbins, Kara Swisher, Hasan Minhaj – and many more
📚 Category Breakdown: 2025 Finalists
🎥 Best Video Podcast Host
Mel Robbins Podcast – 143 Studios
Murder, Mystery & Makeup – Bailey Sarian LLC
Hasan Minhaj Doesn’t Know – Lemonada Media
The Pivot Podcast – The Pivot Podcast
The Pre-Game With Kayla Nicole – Dear Media
😂 Best Comedy Podcast
Berlant & Novak
Petty Crimes – Hartbeat
Las Culturistas – iHeartPodcasts
The Big Pitch with Jimmy Carr – Netflix
Reading Reddit Stories – Smosh
🎙️ Best New Podcast
IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson – Higher Ground
Aspire with Emma Grede – Audacy
Hyperfixed – Independent Creator
Mind Your Own with Lupita Nyong’o – KQED’s Snap Studios
Signal Hill – Signal Hill
…and many more across dozens of categories including True Crime, Arts & Culture, Business, Politics, and Limited Series.
📢 Listener’s Choice Awards: Your Vote Counts
Fans worldwide can vote for their favorites in the Listener’s Choice Awards until October 9, 2025 at vote.signalaward.com.
2024 participation grew 43% year-over-year
Organizers expect record-breaking engagement this year
Winners will be revealed October 15, 2025
💡 Why the Signal Awards Matter
According to Jemma Rose Brown, General Manager of the Signal Awards:
“This year’s Finalists showcase not just great entertainment, but also education, activism, innovation, and joy. These awards are an incredible example of how audio continues to evolve and capture cultural moments in real time.”
The Signal Awards are seen as a seal of credibility in a crowded podcasting landscape. As Sarah Jane Johnson of The Moth explained:
“We were able to use our Signal win to secure funding and grow our audience. It’s an instant validator.”
🔥 Emerging Trends in Podcasting 2025
The finalists list reveals key industry trends:
Independent Creators Are Thriving – Shows like Hyperfixed and Our Ancestors Were Messy prove you don’t need a big network to make an impact.
Video Podcasts on the Rise – YouTube and streaming-friendly shows are dominating categories.
Cultural Conversations Matter – Podcasts exploring race, gender, and politics are getting major recognition.
Hybrid Formats – Comedy-meets-news, investigative-meets-true-crime are gaining traction.
🎉 What Happens Next
Voting Deadline: October 9, 2025
Winners Announced: October 15, 2025
In-Person Winner’s Party: November 10, 2025
📝 Final Thoughts
The Signal Awards 2025 finalists represent the pinnacle of podcasting excellence — a perfect blend of creativity, journalism, humor, and cultural commentary. Whether you’re a casual listener or an industry insider, this year’s list is a roadmap to the most exciting voices shaping the conversation in 2025.
