# Exploring Iconoclasm in Podcasting: A Critical Debate
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Introduction
A memorable moment from the American version of The Office often comes to mind when I witness respected individuals engaged in heated debates. In one scene, Creed, the show's quirky quality control expert, remarks, “I’m loving the debate,” with genuine enthusiasm, as two employees argue over a significant global issue. This brief clip plays in my head whenever I observe intellectual disagreements between two groups I respect.
Recently, a similar debate unfolded on the esteemed platform of Medium.com. It featured Mike Mignano, the founder of Anchor and former Head of Podcasts at Spotify, and James Cridland, the author of the indispensable PodNews newsletter. Mignano penned an article titled “The Standards Innovation Paradox,” a grand-sounding title that invites curiosity. In his piece, he uses podcasting as a primary example to illustrate a broader technological issue: while standardization (like RSS in podcasting) can initially spur growth, it ultimately hampers long-term innovation and creativity. Mignano suggests that without standardization, an industry struggles to mature enough to innovate—hence the paradox he describes. While he offers some potential solutions, the inevitability of the paradox remains.
Critique and Counterarguments
Cridland, along with Bryan Barletta of the Sounds Profitable newsletter, responded critically to Mignano’s claims. Cridland argues against the assertion that RSS has been stagnant for twenty years, citing specific advancements that demonstrate its evolution. As someone who has manually coded RSS feeds, I can attest to the significant changes over the years. Furthermore, Cridland contends that Mignano might have missed an opportunity to lead innovation during his tenure at Anchor, especially given Spotify's substantial market share at that time.
I find merit in both perspectives. As a podcaster for seven years, I share the sentiment that podcasting, in its current form, is not the final chapter of audio content. The limited evolution I’ve witnessed, not only in my professional journey but also in the broader landscape over the past fifteen years, raises concerns. New features in RSS do little to quell my anxieties about stagnation, akin to rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic. This dilemma extends beyond technology to encompass content and culture itself. It seems that the most thought-provoking questions about the future of podcasting often come from those outside the industry, particularly from tech professionals accustomed to a more iconoclastic approach—constantly evolving, iterating, and discarding outdated ideas.
The Role of Iconoclasm
Iconoclasm is complex. I consider myself an iconoclast, yet unlike Mignano, I lack significant authority. For me, it feels like an abstract concept. If Spotify were to acquire me (along with my dog, of course), would I have the conviction to implement the bold ideas I freely discuss? Would I prioritize my career and the job security of others over my radical beliefs? Or would I succumb to the comfort of the status quo, as I often do?
This dilemma aligns with Cridland's argument: one should either act on their beliefs or remain silent. Performative iconoclasm is particularly unhelpful when it comes from influential figures in the industry. Mignano’s respected status within the tech community means that his views on podcasting's stagnation can carry significant weight, leading outsiders to perceive a lack of innovation. If a former CEO of a podcast company valued at $150 million believes that podcasting is not evolving quickly enough, there must be some truth to that observation, which can be concerning.
The Need for Radical Ideas
Nevertheless, the podcasting landscape requires a venue for radical ideas. New podcast companies often recycle existing concepts—whether it’s innovative ad placements, new paywall strategies, or simply producing quality podcasts. Companies like Entale and Accordion, which challenge conventional definitions of a podcast, are exceedingly rare. Despite the apparent tension between the newsletter editor and the tech innovator, I would love to see them engage in a constructive dialogue, perhaps even through a podcast.
Podcasting needs its iconoclasts, just as it benefits from its advocates and skeptics. For those curious about the future of podcasting, it’s essential to engage with these discussions. While Mignano and Cridland may not see eye to eye, I found common ground in their arguments, suggesting that a balance can be achieved.
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