Audio vs The World - Innovate or Die

Podcasting has spent the last 20 years making the absolute most out of the least bit of data, insights, and client connection in any major medium. In a world where everything is a podcast, how are those that know the strength in audio-at-its-core-media driving innovation, experimentation, and competition that benefits podcasting? What are the latest trends, insights, and experiences when it comes to technical solutions, advertiser needs, and publisher benefits when we can fully explore the corners of all things audio?