TechCrunch Daily Crunch Americans now listen to podcasts more often than talk radio
7 snips
Feb 26, 2026 Snapchat debuts a glitzy new awards show called The Snappies and stakes its claim in entertainment. A Pew report reveals teens increasingly turn to AI chatbots for homework, info and emotional support. Experts warn about mental health risks and isolation from general-purpose bots. New listening data shows podcasts have edged past talk radio and video podcasts are booming on major platforms.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Snapchat Launches The Snappies Creator Awards
- Snapchat will host The Snappies awards on March 21 to honor creators across categories like Spotlight MVP, Best Storyteller, and Breakout Creator of the Year.
- The live show at Snap's Santa Monica HQ will include guests such as DJ Khaled receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award and host Matt Friend.
Teens Rely On AI Chatbots For Homework And Emotional Support
- Teens are increasingly embedding AI chatbots into daily life for information and schoolwork, with 57% using AI for search and 54% for homework help.
- A notable share uses chatbots for casual conversation (16%) and emotional support (12%), raising concerns among mental health experts.
Podcasts Overtake Talk Radio In U.S. Listening Share
- Podcasts now account for a larger share of spoken-word listening than AM/FM talk radio in the U.S. with 40% versus 39%.
- Edison Research found 115 million weekly U.S. podcast listeners and video podcasts are increasingly common across platforms like Spotify and YouTube.