A question that divides the generations? Maybe, maybe not… Do you listen to podcasts?

You don’t? Hmm, well, you’re in good company, I suppose – that is, if you were born between 1946 and 1964. You’re a Baby Boomer. And when a Baby Boomer asks another more basic question, “What really IS a podcast?” the answers to both the two questions may slap them in the face.

Or:

You DO listen to podcasts…AND ARE NOT A BOOMER, just don’t be “that guy” who says “Ok, Boomer” because its meaning is simple: someone who is old, stereotypically portrayed as ignorant of new technology or modern concepts. (Please read what’s to follow and then pass this newsletter on to older people you know who need encouragement and can’t yet find it through podcasts.)

Being called a “Boomer” to your face (or behind your back) is not a nice thing. “Ok, Boomer!” was introduced on Reddit on September 29th, 2009 to mock (or even dismiss) attitudes typically associated with the generation born between the end of WWII and 1964. It caught on, via memes, TikTok videos and late-night comedians. The high-water mark for its cavalier usage appears to have been in 2019, according to research. My hope is that things are better now. At least, more civil between generations?

However, the imprint of the caustic phrase remains today. It’s even a bit more baked into the culture. Cringed at by many thoughtful younger people who experience the mirrored realities of sexism and racism NOW see the same disrespectful attitudes in ageism. All such comments are disrespectful dismissals; insensitive remarks by unknowing or uncaring individuals.

The question is… is tech criticism accurate when applied to most Boomers?

Maybe, maybe not.

There appears to be a huge movement of older people who are tapping into the well-spring of podcasts. A great internet article on the Sonida sums it up to Baby Boomers: “It’s Radio but on the Internet: Seven Best Podcasts for Seniors and Baby Boomers”.

A year ago, a fascinating study on podcasts came out. Here’s what it said:

“Somerville, NJ (April 13, 2023) Released today by Edison Research and NPR, a new study finds that podcasting has a largely untapped audience in the age 55+ demographic. The study, “Hit Play, Boomer,” was presented in a live webinar hosted by Edison Research President Larry Rosin.

Further, the article says,

Consider yourself now targeted and educated.

As a Podcaster, my personal and anecdotal findings confirm both of these facts and add one additional awkward truth to the list. Here ya go:

1. Many Baby Boomers are not aware of podcasts – and those that are may even be hesitant (for some unknown reason) to find them and listen to them, let alone share the links with friends.
2. There are plenty of podcasts that match the demographic of EVERY age!
3. Most people on my own Newsletter list (that includes YOU, as you read this) have never listened to even one episode of my podcasts. (No guilt intended, just fact.)

So, let’s tackle these key points, one at a time from #3 and moving back to #1.

​Just Around the Corner with Dennis Mansfield​

#3. Most people reading this have never listened to one episode of my podcast

I made a decision almost five years ago to dive into the icy and uncharted waters of podcasting because my friend and longtime radio professional, Mr. Kevin Miller, encouraged me to do so.

The pilot episode launched July 11th, 2019. It began picking up subscribers immediately. Since I like listening to separate radio and television interviews that have history, entertainment, public policy or humor to them, I wanted my podcast to emulate that as well. I interview facinating people with varied interests, to include those who have a love of music, film, travel, history and more.

​Here's a fun episode from Season One. It’s an interview with my daughter, Meg, regarding binge-worthy TV, road trips and fun!

Now that I’ve got your interest, the entire list of my podcast episodes can be found here. You can subscribe to my podcast.

After wrapping up season two, we decided to add a video component to the podcast for season three. We began recording at a new studio with Barefoot Media Ministries.

The second episode of season three featured Mr. Stewart McLaurin, the President of the White House Historical Association. Stewart’s been a fascinating friend of mine since the early 80’s. I’ve loved visiting the White House since I was a little boy.

Founded in 1961, the mission of the White House Historical Association is to enhance the understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of the Executive Mansion. In his ten year as President of the WHHA, Stewart has expanded the Association’s cultural and educational programming through award-winning books, popular video series, and events to ensure White House history is preserved for future generations. He is the host of of the White House 1600 Sessions podcast.

#2. There are plenty of podcasts to match your demographic and your interests

In addition, there are many places to find and subscribe to podcasts, check this article out for help.

I’ve found the quickest and easiest way to find podcasts is Google. Just choose your niche, and type in “business podcasts,” “health podcasts,” “relationship podcasts,” or whichever topic interests you the most. Also, asking friends, with common interests, what podcasts they listen to, will open additional doors. Then Google it and subscribe. Before you know it, you’ll be listening, subscribing and sharing! It’s a blast!

Finally #1. If you’re a Boomer and unaware or timid when it comes to podcasts, here’s some resources

• This GREAT article is just for you. It’s ironically entitled “OK, Boomer, you need a podcast”.
• ​Here’s an additional article on how to subscribe to a podcast, if you struggled with the earlier one I mentioned.
• Finally, you can conquer your fear of technology by subscribing to this podcast.

So, there you are, young and old!

If you’re a Baby Boomer and feel like you are becoming invisible around people, change your attitude by changing your altitude. Start shooting upward, start getting involved, start listening to and watching podcasts that help you with those goals.

If you’re a young-ish person, examine yourself and see if you’ve adopted any arrogance of (or distancing from) the Boomers in your life. If so, go talk with them and ask if you can help them with any technology that is causing them problems. Trust me, they will be thankful. As the Danish band Lukas Graham sang in their song ‘7 Years’: “Soon, I’ll be 60 years old, will I think the world is cold? Or will I have a lot of children who can hold me? Soon, I’ll be 60 years old.”

Your time is gonna come. Give and it’ll be given back to you. Start now.

Remember, there are plenty of podcasts that match the interests of every age, now go out and find them! And if you haven’t already subscribed to my podcast for entertainment, facts and history, try it, it might be your first podcast but I bet it won’t be your last!

More later,

Dennis

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• Here’s a great streaming show entitled Only Murders in the Building. It’s about podcasting, murder, and humor that you’ll find more than interesting.
• Please help me expand my newsletter reach. Did you know that only 17-28% of newsletters are actually opened? I’m proud to tell you that my “open” rate is just at 60%, thanks to all of you! Would you be willing to forward this edition of the newsletter to seven friends and let them know I have a “HUGE subscription open rate?” (Ha! They won’t know what that means – but it’ll be fun to open your email to them with those words.) I’d sure be honored to have your friends join my email list! DIN, baby… (do it now!)

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