David vs. Goliath Victory in Podcasting’s Premier Awards
In a stunning upset that highlights the growing influence of independent podcasters, Future Around & Find Out (FAFO) has won the 2026 Webby Award for Best Technology Podcast, defeating major network productions including The Verge in the process.
The victory represents a significant milestone for independent podcasting, as FAFO competed against some of the most well-resourced media organizations in the world to claim what The New York Times calls the “Internet’s highest honor.”
Four Years in the Making
This marks FAFO’s first outright win after three consecutive years as a Webby honoree. The show, hosted by Dan Blumberg—a technologist and former public radio journalist at WNYC and Chicago Public Radio—operates entirely independently without backing from major podcast networks, production companies, or venture funding.
“Such incredible validation for this indie show!” said Blumberg. “I’m so happy the show and its mission is resonating! There is a lot of anxiety right now. We acknowledge and lean into that, without getting stuck there.”
Empowering Builders in the AI Era
FAFO focuses on empowering builders—product people, founders, and engineers—to think clearly about AI and emerging technology. The podcast publishes twice weekly, featuring Tuesday interviews with innovators and technologists, and Friday explorations of the week’s most interesting tech developments with futurist Kwaku Aning.
Recent guests have included notable figures such as de-extinction pioneer Dr. Beth Shapiro of Colossal Biosciences, AI consciousness researcher Daniel Hulme of Conscium, and responsible AI expert Dr. Rumman Chowdhury. The show covers AI, robotics, biotech, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies while celebrating breakthroughs and calling out industry hype.
Recognition from Industry Leaders
Nick Borenstein, General Manager of The Webby Awards, praised Blumberg’s work: “Dan Blumberg isn’t just shaping the Internet—he’s redefining it. This honor celebrates the fearless creativity and sharp execution that make his work an unmistakable force online.”
At today’s 30th Annual Webby Awards ceremony in New York City, Blumberg delivered the traditional five-word acceptance speech with the message: “Don’t Let The Future Down”—a phrase he says will become a new mantra for the show.
What This Means for Independent Podcasting
FAFO’s victory against major media operations demonstrates that independent creators can compete at the highest levels when they deliver unique value to their audiences. The win comes at a time when the podcasting industry continues to evolve, with independent creators increasingly finding ways to build sustainable, influential shows outside traditional media structures.
The podcast is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, with a companion newsletter at FutureAround.com. For podcast professionals and creators, FAFO’s success story offers inspiration and proof that independent voices can break through in even the most competitive categories.
Source: Podwires Newsletter
