6 Tips for Creating a Compelling Podcast
Synopsis:
Ever thought of producing your own podcast? A podcast is like a radio talk show which digs a little deeper into topics than the written word. But unlike a radio show, a podcast is available on the Internet for free, to anyone in the world who has a connected device capable of playing audio. Violeta Saladiene, President of Shilling Speakers Toastmasters Club, shares some of the tips and tricks for putting together an award-winning podcast.
Podcasting can be used as a powerful tool for marketing your business, sharing your expertise and telling stories you want to share with the world. It can also be a fun hobby or an enjoyable side hustle.
Here are some tips for creating a compelling podcast and getting your voice heard.
- Know your target listeners
We got the idea for our podcast from Toastmasters International in America. They have produced over 250 episodes, amplifying the interviews and stories featured in the Toastmasters magazine, digging a little deeper, to put a voice to the written word. Their podcast is aimed squarely at existing club members.
At Shilling Speakers Toastmasters Club, we’ve been running our podcast for two years, building it from the ground up and we’ve got 52 episodes in the can. While the episodes are listened to by our club members, we are also trying to attract new members, by giving them a flavour of what to expect when coming to a meeting at our club.
Ask yourself why you are doing the podcast, if the purpose is to entertain, inform or educate and then jot down who you are trying to reach.
Once you have the answers to these questions, it will help you plan the content of your episodes, ensuring they are relevant and engaging. For instance, if your podcast is aimed at young professionals, you’ll want to focus on topics that resonate with them and their challenges and interests. Choose a unique and memorable name for your podcast. It should hint at the content while standing out to potential listeners. A distinctive name helps with the branding and makes it easier for your audience to find and remember.
- Define your structure and podcast length
Having a consistent structure for your podcast episodes can greatly enhance the listening experience. Decide if you want to present alone or with a team and agree on the segments for each episode. This structure not only brings variety, but also sets clear expectations for the audience. Consistency helps your listeners know what to expect and creates a sense of familiarity, making your podcast appear more organised and professional.
The ideal length of a podcast episode can vary, but between 30-40 minutes is generally the most effective, because its long enough to delve into topics without overwhelming the listener. As you gain more experience, you can adjust the length based on audience feedback and the complexity of the topics covered. Shorter episodes can be punchy and more easily digestible, leaving listeners wanting more and eagerly anticipating the next episode.
- Decide how often you will publish
Consistency is the key in podcasting. Decide how often you’ll release new episodes and stick to that schedule. Publishing regular episodes not only meets audience expectations, but also helps maintain listener engagement. Consistency also signals professionalism and reliability, which can help you grow a dedicated listener base.
- Get your recording equipment and software
When starting a podcast, one important consideration is audio quality. Invest in a high-quality microphone to ensure clear, professional sound. Consider the recording environment and minimise background noise and echoes to enhance sound quality. Poor audio quality can deter listeners, no matter how compelling your content is.
Editing can make or break your podcast. Free software like Audacity and GarageBand are excellent starting points. If your budget allows, consider professional options like Adobe Audition or Hindenburg Journalist. Editing involves more than cutting out mistakes, it’s about creating a smooth, engaging flow. A well-edited episode can significantly improve the listener’s experience, making it polished and professional. During editing, pay attention to pacing, remove unnecessary pauses, and ensure transitions between segments are seamless.
- Make sure you are on the top platforms
Publish your podcast on major platforms such as Spotify (32m + monthly listeners) and Apple Podcasts (28m+ monthly listeners). Pay attention to the title and description of each episode. A catchy, intriguing title can attract new listeners, while a detailed description with relevant keywords can help your podcast appear in search results. In the post-COVID era, you have just eight seconds to grab a listener’s attention. Consider creating custom artwork for each episode so it is both professional looking and visually appealing.
- Promote, promote, promote
Effective promotion is crucial to growing your audience. Use social media platforms and tailor your approach to your target demographic. Younger audiences may prefer Instagram and TikTok, while professionals may be more accessible on LinkedIn. Don’t forget to share your podcast with friends, family, and colleagues. Creating a dedicated podcast website and considering paid advertising or email marketing can also enhance visibility. Another good strategy is to record a promotional video of up to one minute. Engaging with your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes content, episode highlights, and encouraging listeners to leave reviews will also lead to organic growth and a loyal listener base.
Podcasting is an engaging and dynamic way to promote your business and share what have to say with the world. By understanding your audience, maintaining a consistent structure and schedule, investing in your recording equipment, and promoting your content, you’ll develop a podcast that resonates with listeners and keeps them returning for future episodes. Not only will you gain a dedicated and loyal following your fans will also spread the word about your podcast.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Violeta Saladiene is a member of Toastmasters International, a not-for-profit organisation that has provided communication and leadership skills since 1924 through a worldwide network of clubs.
Leave a Reply
Want to join the discussion?Feel free to contribute!