Gen Z’s Podcasts Takeover: India’s New Long-Form Revolution

If you thought Gen Z only had the attention span for 30-second Reels, think again. While short-form video may dominate the scroll, a growing set of young Indian creators are proving that long-form storytelling isn’t dead – it’s just wearing cooler headphones.

Podcasts have quietly become the new hangout space for Gen Z – a platform where creators can be unfiltered, conversational, and most importantly, themselves.

Why Podcasts, Why Now?

For a generation that craves authenticity, podcasts feel like a natural fit. They’re intimate, immersive, and free from the pressure of being algorithm-friendly every second. Unlike the glossy aesthetic of Instagram or the high-energy edits of YouTube, podcasts lean into real talk.

And that’s exactly what Gen Z wants, conversations that feel like a coffee chat, not a press release.

Creators are also discovering the power of the mic. Podcasts let them stretch beyond 60-second formats, explore layered stories, and build communities that actually stick. Plus, they double as brand-building tools – with clips repurposed into Reels that amplify reach while keeping the long-form core intact.

Voices Leading the Wave

Raj Shamani – Figuring Out

Already a household name in the business and self-growth space, Raj’s Figuring Out podcast has become a cultural phenomenon. It brings together entrepreneurs, creators, and thinkers, offering Gen Z both inspiration and relatability. His ability to weave big ideas into digestible conversations has made him one of India’s most influential podcasting voices.

Ansh Dhote – Shut Up Beta

Best known for his sharp takes on culture, Ansh surprised many by launching Shut Up Beta, co-hosted with his mom. Equal parts funny and wholesome, it gives listeners a peek into intergenerational banter – proving that long-form can be heartfelt while still entertaining.

Untriggered Podcast – with Amin Jazayeri, Stuvi Krishnan, Yug Patil & Krishna Vasisht

With its chaotic energy and unapologetically honest tone, the Untriggered Podcast has become one of the most talked-about Gen Z-led pods in India. Hosted by Amin, Stuvi, Yug, and Krishna, it dives deep into internet trends, relationships, existential questions, and everything in between – all through the lens of youthful candour and humour. It’s the kind of show that feels like a 2 a.m. conversation with your closest friends – messy, funny, and way too relatable.

Sakshi Shivdasani & Naina – Moments of Silence Pod

This duo is redefining how women creators can shape podcasting. Their Moments of Silence Pod blends humour, honesty, and a dash of chaos, offering episodes that feel like late-night chats with your best friends.

Kanchi & Rhea – Spoke2Soon Pod

Bringing a refreshing female voice to India’s podcasting scene, Kanchi and Rhea’s Spoke2Soon Pod feels like an easy Sunday conversation – real, raw, and unfiltered. They discuss everything from pop culture to personal growth, offering a mix of humour and depth that resonates with audiences looking for authenticity in a digital world full of filters.

The Bigger Picture

What makes this wave fascinating is how podcasts are no longer niche. Spotify India has invested heavily in the space, while YouTube now has podcast-specific features that make discoverability easier than ever.

Gen Z creators are riding this momentum, using podcasts as both intimacy platforms and growth engines. The playbook is simple: record long-form, slice it into short-form, and distribute everywhere.

Another key factor is monetisation. With brand sponsorships, platform deals, and even live podcast tours, creators are seeing podcasts not just as passion projects but as scalable businesses. This mix of art, authenticity, and opportunity makes the medium particularly attractive for a generation that values both self-expression and financial independence.

Long-Form Is Cool Again

For years, the internet narrative was that attention spans were shrinking. But Gen Z creators are proving otherwise. They’ll scroll fast, sure – but they’ll also stay hooked if the content feels genuine.

Podcasts, with their ability to slow things down and dig deeper, are giving young creators exactly that space.

The result? A podcasting boom that feels less like a passing trend and more like the evolution of digital storytelling.