The Audio Insurgent

The Audio Insurgent is a periodic newsletter, published on Substack, covering the evolution of the spoken-word audio industry, including podcasting, audiobooks, and radio (both broadcast and streaming). It is written by Eric Nuzum, a longtime podcasting and public radio industry figure. Rather than reporting news, the publication offers commentary, principles, and insight presented as "dispatches" aimed at industry professionals.

The newsletter is intended for people working across the spoken-word audio sector, including makers, marketers, producers, managers, editors, executives, interns, and salespeople, who want to see the industry grow and thrive. It frequently addresses podcasting and public radio specifically, examining current practices and future directions without making explicit predictions. Topics include leadership development, audience-centered strategy, and how creators can challenge industry conventions.

The publication emphasizes an audience-first philosophy, arguing that marketing, revenue, and distribution should be treated as core responsibilities of audio creators rather than separate functions. It frames success in the industry as a function of delighting and growing listenership rather than purely production quality. Dispatches are released periodically rather than on a fixed schedule, and the newsletter includes both free and paid subscription content, with paid subscribers receiving additional personalized material from the author.