German Podcast Award 2026 | Nominations & Winners

On May 13th the time has come: the German Podcast Award 2026 will be awarded in 24 categories! And from now on, your favorite podcasts from German-speaking countries can also be submitted as a candidate.

The 24 categories are intended to represent the entire spectrum of the podcast world – from journalistic excellence to entertainment and innovation to community-driven formats and independent productions.

All podcast formats can be submitted here with just a few clicks until March 22nd: www.deutscherpodcastaward.com

The German Podcast Award is presented in these categories:

• Journalistic achievement
• Comedy/Entertainment
• Fiction
• Newcomer (Audience Award)
• True Crime
• Kids & Family
• Best Author/Best Author
• Lab Podcast Indie Edition
• Business
• News & Politics
• Viral moment of the year
• Science/Technology/Education
• Video podcast of the year
• Society & (pop) culture
• One Host Show
• Innovation (Format / Storytelling)
• Live-Podcast
• Wellbeing / Sport
• Host(s) of the year
• Sound Design / Audioproduktion
• Indie Podcast / DIY Podcast
• Podcast of the Year
• Brand & Branded
• Tissue

This is how the nominations are decided:

A jury of around 50 experts from the podcast, media and cultural landscape selects a shortlist from all submissions.

The community is also asked in some selected categories. All listeners can vote and support their favorites.

A platform for voices – in front of and behind the microphone

The award not only recognizes the hosts and well-known podcasters, but also the creative and technical achievements behind the productions – from author and editing to sound design and audio production. But branded and independent formats are also taken into account, which further develop the medium in terms of content and structure.

The German Podcast Award is organized by WE Are Era and is initiated by RTL+ together with other platforms such as Amazon Music, ARD SOUNDS, Podimo, Spotify and many more.

You can find all information and the complete conditions of participation at: