A Big Picture Look at the State of Global Audio

21 May 2026
The Origin Stage
As members of the Podcast Show 2026 International Advisory Board, Vicky Etchells, Arielle Nissenblatt, Laura Hagen, and Carrie Lieberman bring a uniquely global perspective to the future of podcasting. In this special conversation, broadcaster and podcaster Nihal Arthanayake leads an in-depth discussion on the opportunities, challenges, and trends shaping the industry across international markets.

Drawing on their collective experience spanning creators, platforms, publishers, and audiences worldwide, the panel will explore how podcasting is evolving at every level, from audience growth and monetisation to discoverability, video, advertising, and the rise of new markets outside the traditional podcast strongholds.

Designed as a big-picture look at the state of global audio, this session will examine what different regions can learn from one another, how listener habits are shifting internationally, and what creators and businesses need to do to thrive in an increasingly connected podcast ecosystem.

Whether you’re an independent creator, a global publisher, a brand, or an industry newcomer, this is an opportunity to hear directly from some of the voices helping shape the international future of podcasting.

Chairperson
Nihal Arthanayake
Nihal Arthanayake, Broadcaster
Speakers
Vicky Etchells
Vicky Etchells, Director - Podcasts, Global
Laura Hagen
Laura Hagen, SVP, Americas & Global Head of Agency Partnerships - Acast
Arielle Nissenblatt
Arielle Nissenblatt, Founder, Earbuds Podcast Collective - Head of Community and Content, Pinwheel by Audily
Carrie Lieberman
Carrie Lieberman, Chief Operating Officer - iHeartPodcasts