Hollywood's Decline

After Quentin Tarantino's film "Once Upon a Time in… Hollywood" garnered significant box office revenue, I realized something crucial: Hollywood is on a downward trajectory. The film, featuring major stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt, was overshadowed by the release of a reanimated classic, "The Lion King," highlighting a lack of fresh talent.

Today's stars are not found in traditional films; they are internet sensations like Charli D’Amelio, Mr. Beast, and Joe Rogan. This new wave of influencers represents a media revolution that is refreshingly unfiltered. Independent creators share their lives in a way that feels authentic and relatable, devoid of the polished façades typical of Hollywood.

The podcasting industry is projected to reach a staggering $4 billion by 2024, which is precisely why Hollywood is eager to infiltrate this space. If they can't control it, they might just try to dismantle it altogether. Comedian Tim Dillon succinctly observed:

> “The strategy to undermine podcasting involves allowing superficial celebrities to take the stage, leading to a saturation that will eventually wear audiences thin.”

The End of Podcasting's Golden Age

Are we witnessing a revival of oral traditions through podcasting? Is written communication becoming obsolete? The answer is no. Engaging, conversational podcasts have gained popularity for good reasons, complementing rather than replacing written content. They allow listeners to grasp how individuals articulate their thoughts, offering insights into their personalities.

However, celebrities often lack the depth needed for genuine connection. Tim Dillon stated it well:

> “Celebrities are trained to avoid revealing their true selves. They’ve made a deal to keep quiet, only speaking when money is involved.”

As podcasting evolves, it resembles the new frontier of radio. Figures like Joe Rogan are akin to Howard Stern, while Andrew Schultz and Akaash Singh echo the legacy of Opie and Anthony. This space remains untamed, characterized by independent thought and innovation.

However, what feels fresh now may soon become conventional wisdom. New media, including podcasting, will establish its own doctrines, regardless of Hollywood's interference. The era of trailblazing figures like Joe Rogan and Ben Shapiro may be behind us.

The Future of Celebrity in Podcasting

While the future of podcasts is uncertain, one thing is clear: the rise of podcasting may very well signal the decline of celebrity influence. High-profile attempts by figures like Barack Obama and Bill Clinton to enter the podcasting realm have often fallen flat, drawing little interest from audiences.

The saturation of celebrity-led podcasts risks diluting their mystique, revealing them as self-absorbed individuals with little to offer in terms of meaningful discourse.

This realization has deepened my respect for the craft of podcasting. While comedians may make it seem effortless, producing a compelling podcast demands critical thinking, spontaneity, and an openness that many celebrities simply cannot muster.

Sure, Joe Rogan's episodes sometimes veer into absurdity, but his authenticity and engaging guests are what make him compelling.

leans in closer

“Did you know that every decade, your body’s cells completely regenerate?”

pauses to glance at the screen

“Wow, look at that chimp! Must weigh around 400 pounds—impressive!”

Yet, Rogan remains true to himself, an insightful host surrounded by intriguing personalities. If podcasts continue this path, they can maintain their integrity. If not, there’s always the option of returning to books—though who has the time for that?

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