This week, the Blubrry team heads to sunny Orlando for the much-anticipated Podfest Expo 2025, marking our 10th consecutive year at this premier podcasting event. As one of the original exhibitors since Podfest’s inception in 2015, we’re excited to be part of this milestone celebration at its brand-new venue.
The year brings a fresh change of scenery as Podfest moves to the stunning Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld®. Sure, we’ll miss the familiar halls and rooms of the now-closed Wyndham Orlando Resort on International Drive, home to countless memorable moments and connections over the years. Yet, we’re looking forward to the possibilities the new location offers.
Speaking of new, we’re delighted to introduce a new face at our booth this year. Dave Clements, technical support analyst, will be joining us on the expo floor, bringing his expertise and enthusiasm to the Blubrry presence. Our veteran team members are eager to loop him in and introduce him to the vibrant Podfest community.
We’ll also be ready and eager to chat with our new and old friends about the next phase of content creation simplification in finding and connecting with guests — or becoming one yourself!
Blubrry CEO Todd Cochrane will return, of course, and will be speaking at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, on Growing and Sustaining your Podcast with AI. And be sure to catch up with Cochrane and Rob Greenlee for the New Media Show live recording on Thursday, 3:30-5 p.m.
As we know well, evolution in podcasting is a good thing — and that includes conferences and events. The Wyndham on International Drive and the adventures the team had there will always hold a special place in our hearts. From impromptu podcast recordings in the lobby to late-night strategy sessions at the hotel restaurant, and the countless conversations with podcasters who became part of the Blubrry family – those now-empty corridors witnessed the evolution of both Podfest and the podcasting industry itself.
But it doesn’t exist anymore and, well, we understand how that goes.
Mike Dell, VP of customer relations, has attended every year except this one and reflects on how great it was connecting to other podcasters as they embarked upon the maze from their hotel rooms to the main event. In all seriousness, Dell said he and his wife Kathy will miss the awesome Walgreens near the Wyndham and the amazing pool at the resort. The spot was an OLD resort with all the rooms with outside doors like a motel and comprised several buildings, he said.
“I will miss the confusing walk from the desk to my room the first time,” Dell mused.
MacKenzie Bennet, marketing specialist, said she won’t miss the giant bugs and geckos in the rooms or the mold or super-thin toilet paper but, since she also not attending this year, she will absolutely miss catching up with all of Blubrry’s friends.
Change brings opportunity, and the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld® promises to elevate the Podfest experience to new heights. The modern facilities, expanded meeting spaces, and fresh atmosphere align perfectly with the growing sophistication of the podcasting industry. Plus, who can complain about being just steps away from one of Orlando’s premier attractions?
For our team, Podfest isn’t just another trade show – it’s a reunion with our podcasting family. It’s where we get to meet the faces behind the voices, shake hands with long-time customers we’ve only emailed with, and introduce newcomers to the powerful tools and services that can take their podcasts to the next level.
As we pack our booth materials and prepare for another exciting Podfest adventure, we’re reminded of why this event holds such significance in the podcasting calendar. It’s more than just an expo; it’s a celebration of creativity, technology, and community – values that align perfectly with Blubrry’s mission.
We look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new friends at our booth this week. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, stop by to share your story, learn about our latest innovations, or simply join in the conversation about where this incredible medium is heading.
The podcasting landscape has evolved dramatically since that first Podfest in 2015, and Blubrry has been there every step of the way. As we prepare for this new chapter at Renaissance Orlando, we’re more excited than ever to be part of this dynamic community and to continue supporting podcasters and other media creators on their creative path.
Not going to Podfest? Bummer! Come ‘Sea’ what all we have to offer at Blubrry.com!