The ideal length of a podcast will depend on a number of factors, including the topic being discussed, the audience, and the goals of the podcast. However, there are a few general guidelines that can be helpful for freelance podcasters and podcast services.

First, it's important to keep in mind that attention spans can vary among listeners. Some people may be able to focus on a long-form podcast for an hour or more, while others may lose interest after just a few minutes. As a result, many successful podcasts range from 20 minutes to an hour, balancing between depth and brevity.

That being said, it's also important to consider the format of the podcast. If it's a conversation between two or more people, it may be difficult to keep the discussion engaging for more than an hour. On the other hand, a scripted podcast may be able to hold listeners' attention for longer periods of time.

Ultimately, the length of a podcast should be determined by the content and the audience. Freelance podcasters and podcast services should experiment with different lengths to see what works best for their particular show. It's also important to pay attention to listener feedback and adjust accordingly. By finding the right balance between length and content, podcasters can create a compelling and engaging show that keeps listeners coming back for more.