The long-form content renaissance - Episode 38
The tides of social media are shifting, and in 2025, long-form content is making a comeback in a major way.
While short-form videos and bite-sized updates still have their place, creators and audiences alike are gravitating toward more in-depth, meaningful content.
Platforms like YouTube, blogs, Substack, and podcasts are thriving, proving that the future of content creation is built on depth, not just quick hits.
Create & consume
What Austen is creating this week: a partnership with Dove on Instagram!
What Austen is consuming this week: The Grammy’s—it was a night for the girls—Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Doechii, Beyoncé and so many more! Women run the music world.
In this episode:
The state of social media in 2025
Before we dive into the rise of long-form content, let’s take a pulse check on what’s happening across major platforms:
TikTok ban uncertainty: While the ban has been paused for now, the conversation around TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains ongoing, making creators rethink their reliance on the app.
Instagram reels and YouTube shorts expanding: Reels can now be up to three minutes long, a clear sign that platforms are adapting to demand for slightly longer, more engaging videos.
The podcast boom: According to PodNews, there are over 5 million podcasts on Spotify. 44% of all podcasts have fewer than three episodes, and only 720,000 have more than ten episodes. Of those, 156,000 are releasing weekly episodes. This means that consistency in podcasting is rare but valuable, making it an even stronger space for committed creators.
Long-form platforms to create on
As social media becomes increasingly saturated, long-form content offers a way to stand out.
Whether you’re building a brand, monetizing your expertise, or simply looking for a sustainable way to create content, here’s why long-form is the way to go:
Blogs: Blogs allow you to drive your own traffic through SEO, social media, and referrals. With a strong strategy, your blog can become a money-making machine through affiliate links, sponsorships, and ad revenue.
Podcasts: Audio content fosters deep connections with listeners and can be a great way to earn money through advertisers and affiliate links.
YouTube: Video remains one of the most engaging forms of content, and long-form videos help build trust and authority while increasing watch time and revenue ad potential.
Newsletters & Substack: Paywalled content and newsletters allow creators to own their audience while monetizing directly through subscriptions. This model is becoming more popular as people seek control of their audience over algorithm-driven feeds.
If you’ve been primarily focused on short-form content, incorporating one of these platforms into your strategy could be a game-changer.
The benefits of long-form content
So why should creators consider long-form content? Here’s what makes it so powerful:
Know, like, and trust factor: Audiences who spend more time consuming your content are far more likely to trust your recommendations and take action, whether that’s subscribing, purchasing, or sharing your work.
Time spent With an audience: Long-form content differentiates casual viewers from those who are truly invested in what you have to say.
Allowance for nuance: Longer content allows for deeper explanations, storytelling, and analysis way beyond 60 seconds.
Easily accessible links: Unlike short-form platforms where linking is often limited, blogs, YouTube descriptions, and newsletters make it easy to guide your audience toward valuable resources.
Return on investment: Long-form content often provides better longevity—an in-depth blog post or YouTube video can continue generating views and income for years, unlike short-form content that disappears in hours.
1,000 true fans: Kevin Kelly’s concept of “1,000 true fans” states that a creator only needs 1,000 dedicated supporters to build a sustainable business. Long-form content is one of the best ways to cultivate that loyal audience.
Why I’m obsessed with vlogs
Personally, vlogs have become my favorite long-form content format, both to watch and create. Here’s why:
They build real connections: Watching someone’s vlogs feels like getting to know them on a deeper level, which isn’t always possible in short-form clips. A vlog can show a less polished more authentic side of your life.
They showcase multiple sides of your personality: Whether it’s daily routines, travels, or work life, vlogs allow for a well-rounded portrayal of who you are.
They integrate naturally with brands: I often think about what products I’m already using and loving, which makes it easier to pitch relevant brand partnerships.
Do I low-key need YouTube Premium?: I watch so many vlogs that I’m about to upgrade to YouTube Premium just to skip ads—proof that long-form content is where I personally spend the most time.
In summary
The long-form content renaissance is here, and it’s only going to grow in 2025.
Whether you’re a creator looking to build a lasting business or a consumer craving more depth and connection, long-form platforms are proving to be the future. If you’ve been thinking about launching a blog, YouTube channel, podcast, or newsletter, now is the time!
Which long-form platform is your favorite? Let’s chat in the comments!
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