Loneliness experiences and preferences for podcasts as a potential resource: a qualitative study with women in midlife and beyond

Objective Our study aims to explore the experiences of loneliness among midlife women (aged 40–65), as well as their perspectives on and preferences for using podcasts as a potential resource, given the phenomenon’s high prevalence among this group and strong association with adverse physical and mental health outcomes.Method In-person, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 women aged 40 years and above from an outer metropolitan community. Interview transcripts were analysed using inductive, reflexive thematic analysis, informed by a critical realist framework.Results Four themes were derived: 1) life transitions leave us feeling invisible, misunderstood, and unsupported, 2) challenges in understanding loneliness within a context of stigma, 3) podcasts as an accessible tool for connection, validation, and education, and 4) technology, market saturation, and media preferences influence podcast appeal.Conclusion Participants’ loneliness stemmed from various life transitions, including employment, relocation, motherhood, relationships, menopause, physical illness, and caregiving. While podcasts were deemed as a helpful, accessible tool with capacity to foster parasocial relationships, validate, and educate, concerns about technology literacy, market saturation, and preferences for alternative media emerged. Recommendations for podcasts to reduce loneliness included non-stigmatising, uplifting content in a conversational format that provides guidance on loneliness recognition and coping strategies.