Podtrac Releases Multi-Channel Podcast Ranker for January

Why It Matters

The ranking highlights how video and clip formats are reshaping podcast audience metrics, signaling new opportunities for creators and advertisers to monetize beyond traditional audio streams.

Key Takeaways

• Podtrac’s ranker includes audio, video, and clips
• Meidas Touch leads with video‑heavy consumption
• Joe Rogan splits evenly across formats
• NPR News Now remains audio‑centric
• Candace Owens jumps 71 places via video clips

Pulse Analysis

The podcast industry is rapidly evolving beyond pure audio, and measurement firms are adapting. Podtrac’s multi‑channel ranker reflects this shift by aggregating listening, viewing, and short‑form clip data into a single metric. By capturing video podcast streams and clip engagements, the tool offers a more holistic view of audience behavior, addressing advertisers’ demand for cross‑platform insights and helping creators understand where their content resonates most.

The January 2026 rankings illustrate the competitive advantage of video‑centric strategies. Meidas Touch Network’s #1 position underscores how a strong visual component can propel a show ahead of legacy audio giants. Meanwhile, the “Joe Rogan Experience” maintains relevance by balancing audio and video, demonstrating that diversified distribution can sustain high consumption. NPR’s placement at #4, driven largely by audio, suggests traditional news podcasts may need to invest in video formats to capture younger, visually oriented listeners. Candace Owens’ dramatic climb to #10, powered by video podcasts and clips, further validates the impact of visual content on audience growth.

For advertisers and platforms, these insights signal a pivot toward integrated ad packages that span audio, video, and short‑form clips. Brands can now target listeners across multiple touchpoints, leveraging higher engagement rates seen in video podcasts. As more creators adopt video production, measurement standards will continue to evolve, making multi‑channel analytics essential for accurate audience valuation and strategic planning.